Exercise challenge

Instructions

Exercise-induced anaphylaxis is a rare condition in which anaphylaxis occurs in response to physical exertion. There are two major forms, one is food-dependent and one is food-independent. The food dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis occur only if exercise takes place within a few hours of eating of a specific food. In other words, exercise without eating, or eating the specific food without exercises will not trigger the anaphylaxis. In selected cases, Dr. Leung may order an exercise challenge testing for evaluation if the diagnosis is uncertain.

The day before challenge:  

  1. Do not take any antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer. 

  2. Continue asthma inhalers if indicated.

On the day of challenge: 

  1. Do not exercise or eat for at least  6 hours prior to arrival.

  2.  Bring with you the food that is thought to be the trigger. 

  3. Wear sportswear and sneakers. 

  4. Bring a towel and new set of clothes to change after exercise challenge. 

  5. Notify Dr. Leung if you have any restrictions on physical activity due to medical  conditions.

Please do not hesitate to call our clinic for any questions or concerns: 617-804-6767.

References: 

1. Asaumi T, Yanagida N, Sato S, et al. Provocation tests for the diagnosis of food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2016;27:44–49.

2. Pravettoni V, Incorvaia C. Diagnosis of exercise-induced anaphylaxis: current insights. J Asthma Allergy 2016;9:191–198.

3. Christensen MJ, Eller E, Kjaer HF, et al. Exercise-induced anaphylaxis: causes, consequences, and management recommendations. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2019;15:265–273.

4. Foong R-X, Giovannini M, Toit G du. Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2019;19:224–228.