Add The New York Post on Google It’s the rashiest place on Earth.
Millions of people head to Florida or out West to Disney theme parks every year, and many come back with more than a souvenir photo with their favorite character.
A skin condition nicknamed “Disney rash” can sporadically appear in parkgoers, but the red, rashy spots don’t mean you’re allergic to the famous amusement park.
“Disney rash” is a condition that results in red, itchy spots on the skin, but affects more than just amusement park visitors. Getty Images Despite the name, Disney rash isn’t actually a rash, but rather one name for a condition known as exercise-induced vasculitis, or inflammation of the blood vessels just underneath the skin.
The result is splotchy beet-red or purple spots that look like a rash, typically on the lower legs between the ankles and knees.
And it doesn’t just happen to amusement park visitors.
As the name implies, this type of vasculitis can also happen to exercisers, particularly in warm weather, namely runners or golfers.
It’s also called “golfer’s vasculitis” or “marathon runner’s vasculitis.”
Although it affects exercisers most often, it’s most commonly seen in women over 50, as well as people with varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood pools in the legs, according to some studies.
The rash is exercise-induced vasculitis, or inflammed blood vessels after being active in warm weather for long periods. clsdesign – stock.adobe.com Hardly the worst condition to affect visitors, the spotty skin condition doesn’t come from the rides or anything to do with the park itself, but rather the weather.
The rash appears after someone spends long periods in warm climates and heat, regardless of how much they exercise or whether they’re running, hiking, golfing, walking or standing around in lines.
Other symptoms can include swelling, welts and a burning or itching sensation, as well as the rash-like spots appearing on the chest or back.
Areas of the body covered by socks and other clothing are typically spared.
While there are several kinds of vasculitis — an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the blood vessels — this type is thought to be caused by a combination of dehydration, humidity, overexertion and standing for long periods.
As quickly as it appears, the rash tends to go away on its own within a week or so.
To alleviate other symptoms like swelling or itching, home remedies can help, such as elevating the legs, wearing compression socks and using aloe vera gel or antihistamines.
Compression socks can also be worn, along with long pants, while walking around the park to prevent the dreaded “Disney rash.”
It’s also recommended to stay out of the heat and avoid exercise until the condition clears up.
