You may not know the term “Disney rash,” but we bet you’ve seen the symptoms at least once on a Disney World trip, especially if you’ve been to Disney World in the summer.
Disney World
Or maybe you’ve just heard about it but aren’t sure exactly what it is. Whatever the case, we’re going to break it down for you so you know what Disney Rash is, how to spot it, and how to prevent it.
What is it?
So, we’re going to help you figure out everything you need to know about Disney Rash with a little help from WebMD. Disney Rash, or vasculitis if you want the official medical term, happens when the blood vessels get inflamed in the lower legs. It’s more common after strenuous exercise (aka, a LOT of walking) and generally happens during hot weather (a.k.a., in Florida).
Disney World requires a LOT of walking!
Typically, the condition happens in women over 50, but we’ve seen younger people get Disney Rash, too. The good news is that the rash is harmless, and it goes away in a few weeks.
The term “Disney Rash” came to be because it happens to many folks who visit Disney World. Combine hot weather and lots of walking, and you’ve got a recipe for “Disney Rash.”
What does it look like?
If you find red or purple blotches or spots on your lower legs, or even swelling, itching, stinging, or pain in your lower legs, you probably have Disney Rash. That’s it. It’s basically a rash on your lower legs after walking around theme parks for a day or two.
How do you treat it?
You’re probably not going to like the treatment for Disney Rash because if you get the rash halfway through your vacation, it could affect the rest of your vacation. The best thing you can do is get off your feet and stay out of the heat. So, you might need to plan an impromptu resort day or two. You’ll also want to keep your feet elevated above your heart every chance you get. Stretching and yoga exercises could also help. Really, the best cure is rest, which can be hard on vacation.
Beach Club Resort Pool
Drinking plenty of water can also help you recover quickly, and put cool, wet towels on the affected areas. If you have pain, soaking your legs in a cool bath with Epsom salts could also make you feel better.
Drink lots of water!
We know this isn’t realistic when you’re in the middle of your vacation, but another good tip is to wear compression socks. The good news is that even if you ignore all this advice, it will disappear on its own in 3 to 10 days, although some skin discoloration might remain longer. If you do have pain and burning, though, a doctor may be able to prescribe something to help.
How to prevent it
Some of the ways to prevent Disney Rash are things we always advise anyway. First, drink LOTS of water, especially when it’s hot at Disney World. Always ask for free water at counter service restaurants, and keep a water bottle handy and refill at water bottle stations.
Mickey and Caterpillar Water Bottle
You’ll also want to wear loose-fitting and light clothing when the temperatures are up in Florida. Remember that the outside temperature might be stated as one thing, but the humidity could make it feel much hotter than that. Take air-conditioned breaks when you can, even if you’re just ducking into restaurants and shops throughout your day.
Look for places to cool off and relax!
Take even more breaks to get you off your feet and out of the heat. Get on those longer rides, watch a show, or watch one of the country movies at EPCOT. Anything where you’re out of the sun and off your feet can help. If you can manage it, plan a midday break where you go back to your hotel and just rest in a cool room. Believe us, that can make a huge difference.
Take a break!
Although the rash is unsightly, it will clear up on its own, but if you’re aware of it and can prevent it from happening, you’re already one step (see what we did there?) ahead of everyone else. Check back soon for more Disney news, tips, and more.
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I developed this rash while at Disney. I remember exactly when I first noticed it. We were still at Disney. It did not completely go away. It’s been there for years now. My dermatologist told me not to worry about it. And so I don’t.