Across the world, an estimated 300 million people suffer from asthma, according to the National Institutes of Health. While the causes of asthma vary from one person to the next, the symptoms always stay the same. As described by the NIH, having an asthma attack is like “breathing through a straw.” Fortunately, the symptoms can be controlled, allowing asthma sufferers to maintain a regular exercise routine.
If you are an asthma sufferer, consult your doctor before participating in any form of exercise.
Identification
Asthma is a condition of the lungs characterized by inflamed airways. As the airways swell, their openings become narrow, making it difficult for air to pass through. As a result, it becomes increasingly difficult to breathe and the production of mucus significantly increases. As explained by the Mayo Clinic, asthma can be triggered by a variety of different factors. These triggers include pollen, mold, dust mites, smoke, medications, foods and beverages. Additionally, asthma may also be triggered by cold air or exercise itself. When the condition is associated directly to exercise, it is referred to as exercise-induced asthma.
Symptoms
Some people only experience mild asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. In severe cases, the asthma symptoms progressively worsen, resulting in a full-blown asthma attack. During a severe asthma attack, breathing becomes increasingly difficult. As the body struggles to draw air into your lungs, lightheadedness and dizziness occur. If the airways continue to narrow, the body may be unable to draw any air into the lungs, resulting in a critical medical emergency.
Exercise
A regular exercise routine is still important for people who suffer from asthma. In fact, the American Council on Exercise claims that “as tolerance for physical exertion is built up over time, it is less likely that an asthmatic will experience an attack during exercise.” However, people with asthma generally tolerate certain activities much better than others. Activities that require short bursts of exertion, such as baseball, wrestling and volleyball, are typically handled well by people with asthma. Additionally, ACE acknowledges that swimming, walking and cycling are unlikely to induce asthma symptoms. On the other hand, activities that require extended lengths of exertion, such as running, hockey and soccer tend to be more difficult for people with asthma.
Treatment
During exercise, people with asthma generally use an inhaled medicine, which helps open up the airways. For best results, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends using the asthma inhaler at least once before you begin exercising. Then, continue using the inhaler throughout the activity as needed. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute also recommends that people with asthma avoid exercising in cold, dry environments, as this typically worsens asthma symptoms. Additionally, if the asthma is triggered by environmental factors (pollen, pollution), avoid exercising outdoors. Likewise, If asthma is triggered by dust mites or pet dander, consider exercising outdoors.
Medications
When dealing with asthma, most people need two different forms of medication. The first, and most important, form of medication is a quick-relief medication, such as an inhaled corticosteroid. When inhaled into the airways and lungs, these medications help the muscles around the airways relax, allowing more air to flow through. A long-term anti-inflammatory medication might also be required, which gradually reduces the inflammation in the airways.
