Itching.....going crazy

[nalla]

I posted this on the exercise forum, but it doesn't look like it's very active, so I thought I would post over here also.
About a month ago I started jogging/running. My problem is my legs start itching so bad that I have to stop. It starts at my ankles and then goes up my legs. My dh told me to start pushing through it and it will go away if I just keep going. So I did that today and it started going up my stomach, so I decided it was time to stop because it was just too much to handle, and I was afraid that my whole body would end up like that. I usually start out with a 5-10 min walk and then work my way up to running. After about 20 min of fast walking the itching starts. It doesn't matter if I'm outside or on my tredmill, wear shorts or loose pants. I have tried putting lotion w/ no purfume or anything in it before I exercise, but it's not working. I have also had my dh spray my legs with water to cool them off, but that isn't working either. I don't want to give this up, but I can't take this itching anymore. I walk and/or my tredmill everyday, sometimes several times a day, so I don't think just getting used to it is the problem. Does anybody have any idea how to make this stop? I will try anything!

[tmv]

I don't know if this will help you or not, but I'll throw it out there and you can decide. The itching may be caused by blood pooling in the veins of your lower extremities. ex. varicose veins, etc. they can be inside and not visible, too. It may be hard or impossible, but maybe try exercising with tight on to help compress the veins. Does it go away when you rest and put your feet up? Best wishes.

[nalla]

Yes it goes away about 15 min after I stop exercising. And no, I have always worn loose pants or shorts. It's worth a try! I would love to be able to jog for more than 15-20 min at a time!!

[tmv]

Hi Nalla, I had some other thoughts after I posted that comment. I thought of exercise induced urticaria. Literally meaning itching due to exercise. They recommed keeping the room cooler where you exercise, taking antihistamines, and stopping for a rest when you start to break a sweat. and then there's the worse case scenerio-it's the internet they post it ALL, anaphylactic shock. Some people carry an epi pen for this. I guess it can happen anywhere that your temp rises-hot tubs, etc. I'd let your dr know and i wish you luck with it. take care, tmv

[tmv]

Hi there, me again. I just read your question on itchy c-section and it can be from all the nerves cut. But try popping a vitamin e capsule with a safety pin and rubbing it into the scar daily. It really helps.

[nalla]

Thanks tmv. I will try that vit, e and see if that helps. That too is driving me crazy at times. LOL

So that other thing you mentioned, does that mean you are allergic to your sweat? I will google that and see if I have those same symptoms. From what you said, that isn't something that I want! Keep your fingers crossed for me!

[tmv]

You may read more about it but I think that some food allergies can make this happen. Also, seems more prevalent just before and during af. Skin allergy testing can be done. Most cases are not severe and if symptoms don't go away 15 min. or so you might call the dr. I would have it checked out anyhow, but I've got my fingers crossed for you. Best wishes, tmv