Itching during exercise

[kevin]

I recently got back into exercising but have an annoying problem. When I am on the treadmill doing some jogging, I start to itch. My whole torso begins to get a red rash. The itching becomes so irritating that I have to stop. Once I stop, the itching begins to die down. Then I take a shower and I go back to not itching. Is this normal?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Kevin:



Well, maybe not normal, but not uncommon.  Heat causes hives in some people.  (No particular reason.)  It's called "cholinergic urticaria."    Try taking an antihistamine (like chlortrimeton, 4 milligrams--OTC) 30 minutes before exercising.  If that makes you drowsy, get a prescription for Claritin or Allegra.  That may suppress the itching, and is worth a try.



Best.  (and no sweat . . )



Dr. R

[Larry]

Kevin, I'm not a Dr. but had the same symptoms and found the my skin was very dry especially during winter months and I always took very hot showers. I now use a moisturizer and milder temp. showers and the problem is gone.



Anxious to read the Doctors response.