If you develop itchy legs while exercising on a treadmill, you could have an exercise allergy. Since the 1970s, an estimated 1,000 cases of exercise-induced allergic reactions have been documented. While it is a relatively rare condition, in some cases, it can be life threatening. Exercises that are most likely to trigger an allergic reaction are those you can do on a treadmill, including running and jogging. People with an exercise allergy may not have to avoid exercising altogether, but they should stop once they sense symptoms are triggered and find exercises that do not cause an allergic reaction.
Step 1
Document your symptoms when they occur. If you have an exercise allergy, you should see your doctor. A diagnosis is made based on your symptoms, which, in addition to itchy legs, can include hives, swelling in your hands, tongue and face, low blood pressure, vomiting, nausea and loss of consciousness.
Step 2
Change your exercise regimen. Exercises you do on a treadmill, including running and jogging, are most likely to cause itchy legs in association with an exercise allergy.
Step 3
Eat several hours before using the treadmill. In some people, itchy legs while exercising only occurs after eating certain foods prior to exercise. By avoiding eating just before a workout or eating after exercising, people with this type of allergy can thwart symptoms.
Step 4
Take an antihistamine before working out. Antihistamines are over-the-counter medications that can relieve allergy symptoms, including itchiness.
Step 5
Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Being overly cold or overly warm can trigger allergy symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Foods to avoid if you have a food-induced exercise allergy include celery, peanuts, eggs and shellfish. Your doctor can prescribe a stronger allergy medication, such as epinephrine, if an over-the-counter medication does not provide enough relief. Many people overcome their allergy. In a 1999 study published in the "Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology," out of 279 confirmed cases of exercise-induced anaphylaxis, 47 percent of study participants reported that episodes eventually decreased and 46 percent experienced stabilized episodes since original onset. The average number of years patients had symptoms was 10.6.
- Exercise-induced anaphylaxis can cause respiratory problems. At least one death has been attributed to the allergy since 2008. Even if your symptoms are mild, just to be safe, you should see your doctor.
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