How to Avoid the Disney Rash, and Treat It If You Do Get It

If you've ever been to Disney in the summer and not had the Disney Rash, count yourself lucky! A small percentage of folks get it and while not having had it myself, a friend once did while we were there and she was MISERABLE. As in, skipped a park day and stayed in bed with ice on the day both the internet and TV channels were down so she had nothing to do. That's how miserable she was. 

The Disney Rash is technically called Exercised Induced Vasculitis. Maybe you've even heard it referred to as Golfers Rash. I spared you a picture because in mild cases, it just looks like a skin contact reaction, maybe a mild poison ivy reaction. In a worst case, like my friend had, it looks like you are turning into a zombie and your flesh is rotting off. 

The rash usually starts around the sock line and works its way up your calf. It's easy to mistake at first for sunburn, or a reaction to the grass or your sunscreen.


What causes Disney Rash? 

Well, it comes from a few things, heat and humidity being the main culprits. And Florida is a few combo of those things. The way it was explained to us at the First Aid Station, was that as the heat radiates up from the walkways,  the moisture on your legs combined with swelling from heat and all of the walking causes the rash to appear. 

The rash isn't contagious, and it's not harmful, it's just bothersome, itchy, for some people it burns and yes, it's an awful thing to have happen during your trip. 


So how can you help prevent this? 

There are multiple ways to help prevent the Disney Rash. You can: 

     * Wear sunscreen, high socks or pants to block the sun and heat

     * Wear compression socks (go here to learn how much they help and how not to feel weird   
      wearing them)

     * Drink plenty

     * Stop for breaks when you need them

     * Prop your feet up in the evenings


Well that's great, but I already have it. Now what? 

Unfortunately, the only things that are going to help are elevating your legs and keeping cool. Once you are back home the rash should vanish. In the meantime, and other the counter anti itch cream might help, if your case isn't too severe. The First Aid Station at any of the parks should be able to hook you up with some. Chances are good, your resort gift shop will sell some too. 

Luckily, the rash doesn't last too long, even it it might feel like it does. 

Have you ever had the Disney Rash?