Question about exercise...

[M]

Hi, I was just wondering why I feel itchy as I exercise? I'm pretty new to exercise, so I don't know the answers. I don't really know how to explain it, except when I exercise I itch all over, including my thighs, stomach, etc.- What does this mean?

[Brook]

Re: Question about exercise...

Means you're getting the blood going!! That's a good thing!

Seriously. Have you ever used a vibrating massager on your skin and had your skin itch intensely as a result? Ever been on an amusement ride and got thrown around at high speeds and came off all itchy? Same type of thing.

It'll get better, I promise. In the meantime, I'd suggest wearing clothing that's a bit tighter to help hold ya in and making sure your skin is well moisturized to remove that little potential complication.


~Brook

[ttdriver]

Re: Question about exercise...

Question:
When I exercise outside, my skin starts to itch. Why does this happen?



Answer:
Itchiness after exercise -- especially outdoor exercise -- may be caused by various factors, such as dry skin, heat rash, sunburn or contact allergies.

To ease the itching, it may help to keep your skin in good condition. Drink plenty of water to remain hydrated, and bathe after you exercise to wash away the mineral residues from sweating that could irritate your skin and dry it out. You may want to limit your bath or shower time and use warm rather than hot water to avoid stripping away your body's natural moisturizing oils, especially if you bathe multiple times per day. To seal in the most moisture, apply skin moisturizers such as Nutriderm or Eucerin right after you bathe. Avoid using talcum powder -- the powder can collect in skin creases and cause further skin irritation.

Be sure to wear sunscreen when you exercise outdoors, whether it's sunny or overcast. To prevent sunburn and heat rashes, avoid exercising for long periods of time in the sun. If you have a heat rash, use mild soaps and moisturizers, and wear lightweight, cotton clothing. You might apply anti-itch creams if appropriate. Be sure to follow product directions.

If you have contact allergies to certain plants, avoid exercising in areas where those plants grow. If that's not possible, ask your doctor about preventive treatments.

Also consider your exercise clothing. Itchy skin could be a reaction to fabric materials or certain laundry products, such as fabric softeners or bleach. Washing new clothing before wearing it for exercise may help.

Some people develop itching and break out in small hives within minutes of exercising. If your reaction is this severe, stop exercising right away. This type of reaction may be caused by the chemicals released in the body after exercise or other forms of physical activity. To avoid symptoms in the future, it may help to avoid exercising in the heat or tone down your workout intensity.

If your symptoms become a persistent problem, consult your doctor for further evaluation. He or she may recommend taking antihistamines before exercise or offer other treatment suggestions. You may need assistance from a doctor who specializes in allergies or skin disorders. Answered by Karen Florkey, R.N. Karen is a Certified Asthma Educator and nurse with Optum, a program that provides comprehensive health and well-being information and education. Karen currently works in Optum's Clinical Outbound Calling program, helping clients learn to manage asthma, congestive heart failure, diabetes, and hepatitis B and C. With more than 24 years of nursing experience, Karen has worked in telephone triage, labor and delivery, cardiac intensive care, medical/surgical units and various other clinical settings.

HTH!

Betty

[cleochatra]

Re: Question about exercise...

Skin itch is an indication (for me) that my skin is too dry when I'm starting to break a sweat. I find that moisturizing makes the difference!