[Exercise-induced anaphylaxis--a review]

Exercise-induced anaphylaxis (EIA) is a syndrome in which patients experience the symptoms of anaphylaxis, which occur only after increased physical activity. It is characterised by a gradual development of symptoms: itching, erythema, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic shock (hypotension, syncope, loss of consciousness, shortness of breath, wheezing, nausea and vomiting), and at the end of the late phase prolonged urticaria and headache. The triggering factors for EIA are as follows: significant exposure to airborne allergens, insect sting, weather extremes, higher air humidity, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The most frequent causative nutritive allergens include wheat, crabs and shells. Prophylactic management for EIA comprises avoding the triggers. Exercise or other physical activity should be performed in proximity of medically trained companion.