After exertion I get bumps on my arms, neck, stomach and legs. The doctor thinks it is some kind of allergy, but I don’t think so. I’ve had the bumps for over a year and a half now. They don’t hurt, don’t itch and disappear when I sit down. I actually don’t mind it, but I’d like to know what it is.
Elly (62)
Dick van Gerwen, dermatologist:
You may have exercise urticaria or heat urticaria. That’s a form of hives. Defense cells in the skin (the so-called mast cells) become active. These cells release substances (histamines) into the skin, causing the blood vessels to open wide and moisture to escape. This normally only occurs with small wounds in the skin (which then become red and thick).
In some cases, the mast cells can be activated by local pressure, scratch, heat or exertion. This creates bumps of fluid in the skin (wheals), which sometimes also turn red.
They usually go away spontaneously in a short time. There is little you can do about it. There are pills with antihistamines, which usually reduce the symptoms.
Do you also have a health question? click here and ask your question to an expert!
-1698484526.jpg "Erectile dysfunction: exercise as effective as Viagra?")
