new rider question, exercize allergy?

[kimberly]

Hi ladies,
I have my first road bike...Giant OCR1, am loving it. I try to ride 100 miles every week. Been at it for 6 months. Anyone have experience with "exercize-induced allergies"...itchy rash on arms brought on by raised body temp. due to cycling. I'm taking Claritin every day now...still makes me nuts! Not riding not an option. I'm hooked. Dermatologist hasn't been much help. Just live with it??

[SadieKate]

Have you always gotten this? Do you get it if you wear long sleeves? The reason I ask is that depending on the season there may be agricultural debris floating about. Here in the central valley of northern CA we've all complained about itchy arms but it is only seasonally. Wheat chaff can really be a pain! You may have more of a topical allergy that would be better treated topically or just by wearing long sleeves (I know, I know). Some people get itchy skin just from sun exposure.

[CorsairMac]

there is also a Benedryl creame (which I'm' allergic to - isn't that a hoot?) that you might try, maybe before you ride and/or carry it with you?......I have a rash I get on my thighs when it gets too cold - I'm OK until I stop and start to warm up then my quads itch like crazy and turn all red and blotchy. I just moved to a warmer climate!