Although most people understand the health benefits of exercise, asthmatics are often concerned about exercise-induced asthma attacks, Fortunately, a number of precautions can be taken to prevent these attacks.
Definition
Asthmatics suffer from chronic inflammation of the breathing passages. This inflammation causes narrowing of the airways, which, in turn, limits the amount of air that can reach the lungs.
Types
Symptoms of exercise-induced asthma usually occur within the first 20 minutes of a workout. They may include coughing wheezing and shortness of breath. Additionally, if an asthmatic is also susceptible to food allergies, he experiences exercise anaphylaxis, which is characterized by itchy skin, hives and abdominal cramps.
Expert Insight
While nobody knows the exact causes of exercise-induced asthma, according to the Mayo Clinic, pollution, pollen, dry air and certain chemicals can make you more susceptible to an attack. Additionally, being out of shape or exercising with a severe cold may also induce asthma symptoms.
Warnings
Activities such as cross country skiing, ice hockey and long-distance running in cold weather are sports that may cause you to experience exercise-induced asthma. Additionally, if you also have food allergies, avoid consuming questionable foods within a few hours of a workout.
Prevention/Solution
The American Council on Exercise recommends warming up for 15 minutes before adding intensity to your workout. Additionally, it suggests that you workout at the lower range of your target heart rate. Be sure to consult your physician, who may advise you to use a short-acting inhaled bronchodilator 15 minutes prior to your activity.
