Learn more about the dreaded “Disney Rash” and What to do about it.
The Disney Rash is a common ailment experienced in amusement parks–find out how to prevent it and what to do if you develop the rash.
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A lot of people get the “Disney Rash” on their ankles and legs when they walk around in the theme parks in sunny Florida.
Many people aren’t familiar with this dreaded Disney rash until it happens to them, so today we’re talking about what causes the rash, some preventative measures, as well as some ways to treat this rash so you don’t have to miss out on experiencing all of the fun things at Disney World!
Disclaimer: Although this article is written by a registered nurse, she is not your registered nurse and any information given here should not be construed in any way as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always consult your own healthcare provider about any concerns or conditions and to obtain appropriate individualized treatment.
What is the Disney Rash?
The Disney Rash, or sometimes referred to as the Epcot Rash, is also known as Exercise-Induced Vasculitis (EIV). This is a rash that some guests at Walt Disney World develop on their ankles and calves when walking around in the theme parks.
Vasculitis is a general term that refers to inflammation of blood vessels.
More specifically, Exercise-Induced Vasculitis (EIV) is a type of vasculitis affecting the small blood vessels of the skin, most often on the lower legs.
This rash is sometimes referred to as golfer’s vasculitis or golfer’s rash, since it was first noted in people who developed a rash while playing golf (it is also sometimes confused with leukocytoclastic vasculitis, which is a different condition involving debris from white blood cells).
It often involves red bumps, patches, or a purplish rash on the surface of the skin, red or purple tiny dots (known as petechiae), swelling, itching, a burning sensation, and pain.
Commonly, areas of the leg that are under compression, such as from the elastic in socks, are spared from the rash. This is why you’ll most often see the rash on the lower extremities, somewhere between the sock line and the knee.
If you want to see some Disney rash photos, you can check out these images of exercise-induced vasculitis.
What Causes Exercise-Induced Vasculitis?
The Disney Rash is typically caused by strenuous activity, particularly in hot weather.
Naturally, a long day filled with long walks in the warm weather and humid environment of Disney World creates prime conditions for this rash.
In an attempt to keep your body from overheating, blood is sent to capillaries at the surface of your skin for evaporative cooling. However, often times this blood may not be easily sent back by the calf muscles, which causes irritation of the blood vessels and results in a rash.
Women over the age of 50 tend to be more susceptible to the rash, and it can affect healthy people with no existing medical condition to otherwise cause a rash.
EIV can be itchy or painful, though it isn’t always. The good news is that it usually goes away on its own within a few days, and there are some comfort measures you can use in the meantime to make it more bearable.
How to Prevent the Disney Rash
Here are a few tips for preventing the Disney Rash during your vacation.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes to stay cool (check out our other tips for staying cool at Disney World).
- If you have some time before going to the parks, try these exercises to improve blood flow in your lower legs and help prevent getting the Disney Rash: Walk in place by marching on your toes for two minutes; then switch and march for another two minutes on your heels.
- Getting prepared for walking at Disney World is always a good idea!
- It’s also a good idea to stay hydrated by making sure your fluid intake is adequate.
- Consider compression socks or stockings if needed, to help support circulation. We have some recommendations on our list of the best socks for Disney World.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Disney World and follow our tips for keeping your feet happy at Disney World.
- Avoid visiting Disney World during the hot months when sun exposure and humid weather are more common. Instead, choose to visit Disney World during the winter months.
How to Treat Exercise-Induced Vasculitis
If you happen to develop the Disney Rash, here are a few measures that can help:
- Seek medical attention at a First Aid station in the parks to rule out other possible conditions. If the condition worsens, or if you suspect an allergic reaction, seek additional medical help at an emergency room or urgent care facility if needed.
- Elevation of the affected area can be helpful in improving circulation and swelling.
- A cool bath or shower may help with the discomfort from itching and burning. While you’re in the parks, consider using a cooling towel periodically.
- Over-the-counter antihistamines may help decrease swelling and itching if needed.
- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, topical corticosteroids, or topical antihistamines may be useful. Some people prefer Benadryl Cooling Gel or Calagel.
- Since significant amounts of time walking contribute to the rash, avoidance of further activity can reduce pain in the affected area.
Disney First Aid Stations
If you notice the rash developing, be sure to stop in and see one of the nurses stationed at the First Aid Centers located in each of the Disney World parks and water parks.
They can help with many minor issues, including the Disney Rash!
To find a First Aid Center, you can locate one on the park map, or you can ask any cast member for directions.
- If you’re in the Magic Kingdom, the First Aid Center is located on Main Street, between Casey’s Corner and the Crystal Palace.
- At Epcot, you’ll find it outside the Epcot Experience building near the Mexico Pavilion.
- Over at Hollywood Studios, it’s located next to Crossroads of the World at the park entrance.
- And at Animal Kingdom, it’s near Creature Comforts in Discovery Island.
Check out this map of locations to find a First Aid Center near you when you’re in the parks.
Don’t Let the Disney Rash Ruin Your Day
Of course, we hope none of us have to deal with any ailments during our vacation. And hopefully, knowing some tips for prevention can help stave off the rash.
But if you do notice the Disney rash developing on your ankles and legs while you walk around in the heat of the theme parks, you’ll know what to do!
More Recommended Disney Planning Resources:
- How to Have Fun at Disney World in the Rain
- Best Ponchos for Disney World
- How the Disney Payment Plan Works
- Best Misting Fans for Disney World
- How to Prevent Blisters at Disney World
Pin this list to your Disney travel planning board for easy access!
About the Author: Chrysti Benner is a Registered Nurse and Disney enthusiast. She holds degrees in both Biology and Nursing and has worked in medical and surgical specialties, as well as geriatrics and obstetrics. She has also served as adjunct professor of nursing at a local university.