Why do my legs itch when I run?

[Love4Fitness]

I have always had this problem and I am not sure why it happens. If I run, I'm good for the first 5-10 minutes and then my legs start itching so bad that I want to just rip my skin off. I know it sounds gross but it is terrible!! I was just wondering if anyone knows why this happens, and if it happens to anyone else. Thanks!
Nicole ;(

 

[candi]

I have the same problem. I actually break out in a rash. It's not hives but little bumps.

 

[mspina]

This happens to me as well, but usually only when it's cold out. I know it's actually a common problem, and known why it occurs, but I can't remember the details of the why! I just live with it...

m.

 

[DeanaMax]

This is actually pretty common. I've heard a few reasons for this. One has something to do with blood flow - the itching is due to capillaries expanding and irritating nerves. The more fit you are, the more your body adapts so you don't feel this sensation after a while. But i've also heard it's the salt in your sweat irritating the follicles. They say to shave your legs with warm water and cream, use a moisturizer, sprinkle powder before running - and wear loose clothing. But I think you typically see this when you haven't ran in a while and it goes away as your body gets more conditioned to running.

 

[rnyogamom]

This is really common-I've read its a histamine - allergic kind of reaction - and the salt irritating follicle...I've found that after shaving, using vaseline as the moisturizer on my legs has worked.

 

[Love4Fitness]

Thanks Ladies!! I will try your suggestions, and if anyone has any other...keep them coming.

 

[amyg]

Nicole, I remembered the same topic coming up a while ago:

http://69.0.137.118/dc/dcboard.php?..._id=250129&mesg_id=250129&listing_type=search

I don't remember much about it, but thought there might be some info in there that might help.

 

[fit_fairy]

It's called exercise urticaria and it is from histamine release. Taking a nonsedating anti histamine (such as claratin)before exercise can help. Not everyone gets the rash, some just get itchy.

http://familydoctor.org/737.xml


Catherine

http://bestsmileys.com/exercising/1.gif

 

[Love4Fitness]

That seems to make some sense. I looked at that website and it was very helpful, thank you! I will try the claratin and see if that works.

 

[fit_fairy]

You are very welcome. I have the same problem. Although mine seems to really be more prominent when I run outdoors- weird. I can do IMAX 2 and I'm fine. Running out doors and my legs are red and itchy!! NO FUN!!


Catherine

http://bestsmileys.com/exercising/1.gif

 

[Love4Fitness]

I KNOW!! I can do all the STEP, IMAX, Bootcamp, Spinning, anything but when I run indoors or outside my legs get itchy. CRAZY CRAYZ!!
Nicole