Introduction: exercise and allergy

Abstract

At a time when the American public is committed to health through exercise, a variety of allergic conditions related to activity are being recognized with increasing frequency. Conditions such as cholinergic urticaria, bronchospasm, and even anaphylaxis have occurred as a consequence of exercise. Thus, a symposium has been developed to examine the role of exercise in association with such conditions. Several of the physical allergies are discussed in overview fashion. Exercise-induced anaphylaxis, the most serious form of allergic response to exercise itself, is considered in greater detail. The etiology, clinical features, and therapy for these physical allergies are addressed. Exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) has been well categorized in the literature. This is another exercise-related condition with an allergic component. The current concepts with respect to proposed etiology, epidemiology, and clinical features are discussed. EIB is an important condition to screen for, and techniques for identifying patients who should be screened are also addressed. Allergic rhinitis may also affect athletes. Accurate diagnosis and effective management of all these conditions may help greater numbers of people to enjoy the full benefits of exercise.