During my last trip to Disney World I suffered from the infamous Disney Rash. In this post I’ll explain exactly what it is and share some tips on prevention and some Disney Rash Treatment tips too.
Disney Rash is something many guests suffer from each year and is also very common for people who play golf and other activities in humid conditions.
Let’s jump into exactly what Disney Rash is.
What is Disney Rash?
Disney Rash is a nickname for exercise-induced vasculitis.
Exercise-induced vasculitis, also known as Disney Rash, is a rare condition that involves inflammation of the blood vessels in the skin, typically after prolonged or vigorous physical activity.
What is Exercise-induced vasculitis (EIV)
Exercise-induced vasculitis (EIV) is a condition that involves inflammation of the blood vessels in the skin, typically after prolonged or vigorous physical activity. Most people suffer from the rash on the lower parts of their legs (just above the ankle).
The inflammation is thought to be caused by an immune system reaction to the stress of exercise, although the exact cause is not fully understood. Symptoms of EIV may include a rash, hives, or redness on the skin, typically on the legs, arms, or torso.
The rash may be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, fever, fatigue, or muscle aches. EIV is typically diagnosed based on the presence of characteristic symptoms and a history of vigorous physical activity preceding the onset of symptoms.
Common activities which can trigger exercise-induced vasculitis include:
- Jogging and running, especially long-distance running
- Hiking and climbing
- Step aerobics
- Body building
- Golf
- Swimming
Who Can Get Disney Rash (EIV)?
Disney Rash/Exercise-induced vasculitis can affect people of all ages, including children and adults. It is more common in people who engage in vigorous or prolonged physical activity, such as runners or athletes.
However, it can also occur in people who do not have a history of regular physical activity (just like me). Some people may be more prone to developing EIV due to underlying medical conditions or genetic factors that affect the immune system. It is not clear why some people develop EIV and others do not.
Disney Rash Treatment at Disney World
If you are experiencing symptoms of Disney Rash/exercise-induced vasculitis (EIV) at Disney World, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If you are unable to see a healthcare provider while at Disney World, you may be able to obtain some over-the-counter medications at a pharmacy or convenience store.
Over-the-counter creams or ointments may provide some relief from the rash, but they are not a substitute for proper treatment.
There are several medications that may be used to treat EIV, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive drugs.
These medications may be used alone or in combination, depending on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of your EIV.
It is important to take these medications exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to follow their instructions for use.
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Disney Rash Treatment Tips To Prevent Exercise-Induced Vasculitis (EIV):
Let’s take a look at some tips to prevent Disney Rash during your Disney World vacation.
1. Get Walking Before Your Vacation
One of the best things you can do is to begin regularly walking in the months prior to your Disney Vacation. Not only will this increase your stamina, it will also prepare you for the miles and miles of walking that you will experience at Disney World.
People typically walk 5 – 10 miles over the course of a full day in the Disney World theme parks and across Walt Disney World Resort.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water will help reduce swelling. People sometimes decrease their water consumption in the parks because of the cost of bottled water and this is a mistake.
You can get a free cups of ice water at any Disney quick-service restaurant. Disney will let you take bottled water into the park too. We always carry our own reusable water bottles, these can be refilled during the day.
3. Elevate your Feet
If swelling begins, you may be able to decrease it by raising your feet above your heart. At your resort, you can lay on your bed with your feet elevated on pillows for at least 30 minutes.
This isn’t easy in the parks but you can go to the First Aid stations if you are suffering.
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4. Take Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at the Beginning of the Day
I took ibuprofen, which has anti-inflammatory properties, to prevent or reduce swelling rather than as a pain killer.
Take it in the morning, before you leave your resort for the parks. Every medication has side effects so check with your doctor about any cautions relating to your health prior to taking my advice.
5. Wear Longer Socks
Wearing taller socks or even compression socks will cover the skin and restrict swelling and help prevent Disney Rash.
6. Cool the affected area
Cover affected areas with wet towels, get in the swimming pool, or rest ice cubes over the area. This really helped me when I suffered from the rash. Very cold wet towels really do bring a lot of relief.
7. Enjoy Different Attractions in the Disney Parks
Look for things like shows, longer rides that will get you off of your feet and out of the sun in the theme parks.
You can also take a mid-day break at your resort or relax in your resort pool and cool down.
My Experience of Disney Rash
I found Disney Rash to be very irritating and had the rash for about a week before it cleared. I constantly want to itch my legs when I first started suffering from it.
Fortunately my wife works as a medicines technician in health care and came prepared with ibuprofen, creams and ointments already packed. We did eventually buy some more creams from Walmart.
Towels soaked in cold water really helped when we were back at our resort room along with keeping my feet elevated for as long as possible. Disney Rash was uncomfortable and irritating but it didn’t come close to ruining my vacation.
Summary
Thank you for reading my post about Disney Rash and it’s treatment and prevention (also known as exercise-induced vasculitis). I hope that this information has been helpful in understanding this condition and the steps that you can take to manage your symptoms.
Remember, if you are experiencing symptoms of EIV or are concerned that you may be at risk of developing this condition, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
Don’t let EIV ruin your fun at Disney World – take the necessary precautions and seek medical attention if needed. Stay healthy and enjoy your trip!
More Helpful Posts
Please do take a look at these other helpful posts for planning a Walt Disney World vacation.
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Disney World Tips for First Timers
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