According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, symptoms of sports and exercise-induced asthma, or EIA, include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The most common symptom is coughing, and that may be the only symptom to arise. Symptoms usually worsen 5 to 10 minutes after ceasing exercise--and can be "mild to severe."
Symptom Triggers
People with EIA are very sensitive to low temperatures and dry air. Usually, air is warmed and moistened by the nose, but exercise that forces breathing through the mouth exposes the lower airways and lungs to "raw" air, triggering symptoms. Any exercise that forces a person with EIA to breathe hard is a potential threat. "Aerobic exercise, such as running or playing basketball, is more likely to trigger symptoms than is weightlifting or moderate-paced walking," states the Mayo Clinic. Exercising in air with heightened pollen and pollutant levels, smoke and strong fumes can initiate an attack. So can stress, respiratory problems and even the common cold. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, other causes may be that a person is "out of shape" or has "poorly controlled nasal allergies or vocal chord issues."
Treating Symptoms
When asthma strikes, sufferers should seek treatment immediately. Patients who don't have an appropriate bronchodilator or similar method of instant relief should see a doctor as soon as possible as asthma can kill. Children are unusually vulnerable.
Three types of medications prevent or treat EIA symptoms. The first is the quick-acting beta2-agonist--or bronchodilator. This medication can prevent symptoms for up to four hours and should be taken 10 to 15 minutes before exercise. This medication can also treat and reverse the symptoms that occur. The second medication is a long-acting bronchodilator that must used 30 to 60 minutes prior to activity and should be used only once every 12 hours. The third type of medication is cromolyn or nedocromi, which must be taken 15 to 20 minutes prior to exercise.
Managing Sports Asthma Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, "there is no way to keep from getting exercise-induced asthma." Instead, it recommends that suffers follow certain guidelines to control symptoms. For example, you should warm up for 15 minutes prior to strenuous exercise. When you have a cold or respiratory infection, you should avoid strenuous exercise. Choose a humid environment for your workout, such as a trail near a lake, or gym with an indoor pool. When exercising, avoid air with allergens, pollution, pollen, or pet dander if symptoms worsen. Learn to warm and moisten air by breathing through your nose. Keep your mouth and nose covered while exercising in cold weather. Do not avoid exercise because you have asthma--staying in good physical condition eases asthma symptoms over time.
