WHAT IS EXERCISE-INDUCED ANAPHYLAXIS?

Exercise-induced anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that occurs during physical activity. While vigorous exercise is more likely to cause the reaction, it can also be triggered by lighter forms of exercise like yard work. Physical activity is not fully to blame for the reaction, as other factors like weather, food, and medications can be contributing factors. Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis occurs during exercise after eating certain foods like peanuts, shellfish, corn, tomatoes, and wheat. Medications like aspirin and anti-inflammatories can also trigger the reaction. Hormonal fluctuations, high humidity, and extreme temperatures have also been identified as triggers. Symptoms are like other allergic reactions and range from hives to difficulty breathing, cardiac or respiratory arrest, and anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.

P.S. An epinephrine auto-injection can slow the effects of exercise-induced anaphylaxis. If you have a known allergy, carry an EpiPen and cell phone with you when you exercise.

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