Exercised-induced hives can cause a skin rash to develop within a few minutes of exercise and can lead to a severe reaction called anaphylaxis. Hives develop anywhere on the skin and are identified by raised welts that form in clusters. Unlike other rashes, the bumps that form from hives are not rounded at the top, but are rather flat with defined borders. If you notice hives develop while you're exercising, stop the exercise. If the hives don't subside within 10 minutes, call your doctor, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Cause
Hives that develop from a rash are the result of an allergic reaction. While most allergies are the result of ingesting a food or medication, exercise can trigger a similar reaction in the body. During an allergic reaction, your immune system overreacts and produces immunoglobulin E antibodies that enter the bloodstream and trigger a chain-reaction of chemicals, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can also trigger hives when you exercise, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Symptoms
Hives are commonly the first sign of an allergic reaction that can trigger the development of other symptoms. These symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, facial swelling, nasal congestion and sinus pressure. Symptoms can develop within a few minutes or may develop once you stop exercising. If you're symptoms continue to progress, call your doctor or visit an emergency room because you may be developing anaphylactic shock.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe systematic allergic reaction that affects your entire body. During anaphylaxis excessive amounts of histamine cause your body to experience a state of shock, according to PubMed Health. This type of reaction can lead to death if not treated. Hives are commonly one of the first signs of this condition. Anaphylaxis symptoms include the inability to breathe, a metallic taste in your mouth, a drop in blood pressure, an increased heart rate and lightheadedness.
Other Rashes
Heat rash is a common rash that can form if your sweat ducts do not allow your body to sweat appropriately. This rash can develop deep red lumps that appear as blisters and may feel prickly or itchy. The most effective way to treat heat rash is to cool down your body, according to MayoClinic.com. Chaffing may also occur under your arms or in-between the top of your legs. Chaffing is skin irritation that develops from constant friction of your skin. Your skin may peel, become red and very tender.
Treatment
Treatment is based on the cause of the allergic reaction. Your doctor will require allergy testing and a food journal to identify any other possible causes of the reaction. If it is determined that you're allergic reaction is caused by exercise, you will be have to stop exercising. Hives may be treated with an antihistamine and topical steroid-based lotion, such as hydrocortisone. Anaphylaxis will require an injection of epinephrine.
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