To achieve a healthy mind and body, one must have a regular dose of healthy food and exercise. Some lift weights, while some people do cardio exercises such as running, jumping rope, and cycling. However, some people need to be extra cautious when doing intense physical activities because it can lead to some adverse health effects.

For example, those who suffer from asthma may have to be more careful when exercising. They might also have to bring their asthma treatments in handy just in case something happens while they are doing intense workouts. It is also best to consult an asthma doctor first before engaging in any physical activities.

Aside from asthma, some people experience allergies due to their sweat and getting too hot. Can you imagine getting allergic reactions just because you feel hot and sweaty? Unfortunately, this can be just as common as food and pollen allergies. Nonetheless, you should have yourself checked by an allergist for proper treatment.

What you need to know about “sweat allergy”

The technical term for this type of allergy is Cholinergic urticaria or cholinergic angioedema. In layman’s term, it is also called sweat allergy or heat pumps. Basically, this condition occurs due to increased body temperature and resulting in itchy hives. It is not clear what exactly causes this type of allergy. However, it is said that it is the body’s reaction to sweat.

There is a higher chance of having this condition if you are suffering from other allergies such as eczema, hives, or asthma. People who have CU experience mild to life-threatening symptoms. Common symptoms of CU include the following:

• Hives (generalized urticarial)
• Swelling (angioedema) around the lips and face, or the tongue or throat in worst cases
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Bronchospasm

If you notice these symptoms, make sure to visit an allergy specialist doctor to help treat your allergies. You might also need to undergo allergy testing to confirm the real cause of your allergies.

What causes Cholinergic urticaria?

This type of allergy usually happens in a flash after the person gets too hot or starts to sweat. It can occur on different parts of the body especially the arms or the torso. The rash would also feel itchy and even some burning sensation and resemble swelling. On a positive note, these rashes due to cholinergic urticaria will eventually fade as quickly as they appeared.

However, some may experience other symptoms aside from rashes, such as:

• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Breathing difficulties

As mentioned, cholinergic urticarial occurs when the person gets sweaty or too hot. But other factors can trigger CU such as:

• Eating spicy dishes
• Stress/anger
• Fever
• Sun exposure
• Hot baths/sauna/hot tubs

These factors can increase body temperature, making the body hot and even sweaty, hence the possibility of having CU.

How to deal with “sweat allergies”

If you notice the abovementioned symptoms, make sure to consult an allergist doctor immediately. You should also undergo a series of allergy testing such as warming test and exercise test to confirm the diagnosis of CU. Treatment might also vary depending on the person.

Some would have to take meds while others have to change their lifestyle 360 degrees. This means avoid heavy exercises that can make them sweat a lot, not eating spicy foods, and not going to spas and saunas. You should also manage stress and anger through meditation and going on therapy.

You might also have to adjust your diet and avoid foods that can trigger CU. This include:

• Alcohol
• Dairy (ex. milk, cheese, etc)
• Vinegar
• Nuts
• Canned foods and others with additives
• Seafood
• Salty foods

It can be more challenging if you live in a tropical country where the sun is often around. In such a case, you need to have antihistamines on hand as prescribed by your doctors such as cetirizine, loratadine, or beta-blockers.

Prevention

If you experience allergic reactions due to CU, say, during exercise, slow down or stop as needed. Take a cool shower or cool off while standing in front of an electric fan or go to an air-conditioned room. Relax and avoid stressing yourself. Visit an allergy clinic in Manassas for immediate treatment of your condition.