Exercise: What role does sport play in pruritus?

Itching has a significant impact on quality of life and affects many areas of life, including exercise. The itching often results in reduced physical activity. The causes for this are varied and include sleep disorders, fatigue, depression, anxiety and an increase in symptoms through exercise.

The focus of the exercise discussed here is on aerobic activities of moderate intensity. By moderate intensity, experts mean sustained exercise that lasts several minutes and requires a slight effort. This includes, for example, walking and running over longer distances, cycling and swimming.

The benefits of physical activity are manifold:

  • Strengthening the cardiovascular system
  • Regulation of blood lipids and blood sugar
  • Strengthening the immune system (particularly relevant for pruritus, as minor inflammations can heal more quickly and the skin barrier is strengthened)
  • Increase in well-being, joie de vivre and quality of life through the release of endorphins
  • Promotion of social contacts

The current recommendations for physical activity are based on scientific evidence. Aerobic physical activity of at least 150 minutes per week at moderate intensity or 75 minutes per week at high intensity is recommended. But don't let these figures put you off, with every minute of exercise you do something good for your body!!!

However, sport can also cause stress in the case of pruritus, which can trigger or intensify the itching. These include

  • Sweat
  • Outdoor sports due to UV rays and pollen
  • Sport in the water
  • Contact with germs, for example on fitness equipment

It is therefore particularly important to choose the right type of sport depending on the cause of the pruritus. In the following, we would like to give you some tips to help you find the right type of sport and avoid possible negative influencing factors.

Preparation and planning

Preparation before the start of sport is crucial. Athletes should discuss their skin care regimen with a doctor to ensure they are using the right care. It may also be necessary to adjust medication before exercise to minimize itching.

Another decisive factor is good daily planning. Showering several times a day should be avoided as it can dry out the skin. However, a cold shower after sport can help to relieve itching. In general, sweat management is another important aspect. If you sweat a lot, you should rinse off the sweat in between to avoid irritation. For example, take an extra bottle of water and a clean towel with you to rinse off the sweat.

Choosing the right sport

Numerous types of sport are very suitable for those affected by itching. Jogging, walking, yoga, Pilates and cycling are moderate physical activities that are particularly suitable for patients with itching. However, the focus should always be on having fun, as fun increases motivation and well-being. So feel free to try out different types of sport until you find the right one for you.

Avoid allergy-causing situations and mechanical stimuli

To avoid allergy-inducing situations and mechanical stimuli, it is important to choose the right environment and the right type of sport. Instead of running outdoors, running on a treadmill could be a better choice. On the treadmill, you are less exposed to allergens such as pollen. Exercising early in the morning or in the evening can also be beneficial. At these times, exposure to UV radiation is significantly lower. A controlled environment, such as "home workouts" with friends, can offer a good alternative to the gym. In the gym, equipment contaminated by sweat poses a risk of damage to the skin barrier.

Choice of clothing

Choosing the right clothing plays an important role. The classic functional underwear that is recommended in many sports stores and worn by many athletes is often not the best choice for those affected by itching. This form of sportswear is often too tight, which can cause heat to build up underneath the clothing. Cotton and silk are a good alternative. The ventilation is significantly better and the clothing is more skin-friendly, these properties help to prevent skin irritation.

Summary

Moderate exercise has numerous benefits. It promotes health and general well-being, improves pruritus and contributes to the prevention and improvement of many common diseases. The health benefits of exercise clearly outweigh the potential disadvantages. It is important to always consider your own needs and adapt the sport to your individual requirements. In acute phases of itching, a break from sport should be taken, as sport should always be fun and have positive effects. By applying targeted strategies, athletes with pruritus can remain active and at the same time better control their symptoms. Sport can therefore continue to be an important part of their lives and contribute to improving their quality of life.

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