For the millions of people with a pollen allergy, exercising outside is difficult or even impossible for part or all of the year, and causes symptoms such as sneezing, chest tightness and wheezing. People with exercise-induced asthma also may experience difficulty exercising outdoors. It is important to reduce or eliminate any limitations to both indoor and outdoors exercise whenever possible. Medication and other tools can help you cope with the effects of pollen on exercise.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pollen allergy, or hay fever, are similar to those of a cold and may include runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, congestion, itching of the eyes or roof of the mouth, headache and fatigue. Unlike cold symptoms, symptoms of hay fever typically last for weeks or months unless the source of the reaction is uncovered and removed. Pollen allergies also can cause respiratory symptoms, such as coughing and asthma, in some people.
Prevention
Taking allergy medication, such as an antihistamine, before exercising outdoors may help prevent runny nose, watery eyes and other symptoms from occurring, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Because wind can stir up pollen and worsen symptoms, avoiding exercise on windy days also is beneficial, as is wearing a mask over your nose and mouth. If you suffer from asthma and experience an increase in your symptoms when exercising outdoors, consult your doctor for advice. You may need to avoid outdoor exercise completely.
Treatment
The most important treatment for allergy symptoms caused by pollen exposure is avoidance of the offending allergen. Take a shower upon returning home and wash your clothing to remove any traces of pollen from your body and clothes. Remain indoors with your windows closed, and take any allergy medications your doctor prescribes.
Warning
Exercising outside in the pollen if you suffer from exercise-induced asthma is dangerous. Exercise-induced asthma causes wheezing, breathing difficulties and coughing within minutes of engaging in vigorous exercise. Inhaling pollen may further irritate the lungs and make breathing worse, potentially resulting in a medical emergency. Speak with your doctor before exercising outside if you suffer from any type of asthma.
