Closing of the soft palate during exercise is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition called exercise-induced anaphylaxis. This condition is rare, and its occurrence is unpredictable since it doesn't occur every time you exercise. The onset of symptoms is rapid, so discuss the problem with an allergist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Identification
The soft palate is located on the roof of your mouth toward the back of your throat. The uvula, which is the hard cone-like projection that hangs from the rear center of the roof of your mouth, can be found in the soft palate. Exercise-induced anaphylaxis can cause the soft palate to swell and close your throat, making it difficult to breathe. Hives are a symptom of exercise-induced anaphylaxis and can occur anywhere on the body, including on the soft palate. If hives cause the soft palate to swell, they can partially or completely block air from entering your throat. Other respiratory symptoms of exercise-induced anaphylaxis include shortness of breath, coughing, trouble swallowing and wheezing. You may also have low blood pressure, a low pulse, bluish skin and a loss of consciousness.
Causes
Your body is having an allergic reaction while exercising. An allergy occurs when your body's immune system recognizes a substance that's usually harmless as being a threat. In the case of exercise-induced anaphylaxis, your body's mast cells release chemicals during physical exertion that result in an allergic reaction, although the exact reason for the chemical release is unknown. The feeling that your soft palate is closing while exercising can occur during all levels of physical exertion; the reaction seems to occur most frequently after ingesting certain foods or medications.
Treatment
If your soft palate swells during exercise, it could potentially block your trachea and prevent air from reach your lungs. If you notice the onset of swelling, stop exercising and immediately seek emergency medical treatment to receive an injection of epinephrine. Epinephrine will improve your circulation and improve your breathing. Your physician may prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine that you can administer at the first signs of anaphylaxis.
Prevention
You may need to modify your physical activity to prevent your soft palate from swelling and obstructing your airway. Jogging and running most commonly trigger exercise-induced anaphylaxis. Starting an exercise regimen when you're out of shape also can induce anaphylaxis. Do not exercise for four to six hours after eating or taking medications. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are the most common medications that trigger anaphylaxis while exercising. Foods that often trigger anaphylaxis while exercising are seafood, celery, wheat and cheese. Antihistamines are not consistent in preventing exercise-induced anaphylaxis.
