Wheezing during exercise is a common symptom of exercise-induced asthma. Nearly 90 percent of children with asthma experience an asthma attack when they exercise, according to KidsHealth.org. Although exercise-induced asthma is not fully understood, it is widely accepted that the asthma is triggered by breathing in cold air or the acceleration of the usage of the lungs. Wheezing during exercise could be a serious condition and needs to be evaluated by a medical doctor.
About Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation in the lungs and restricts the individual from breathing normally. During an asthma attack the airways swell and restrict, leading to a wheezing sound from the airways. There is no cure for asthma. Managing asthma symptoms begins with identifying the specific triggers that can cause an asthma flare-up.
Cause
MayoClinic.com states that the most common causes for exercise-induced asthma are dry air, cold air, air pollution, high pollen counts, chemicals and participating in strenuous activities without being shape. When you exercise, your lungs are being used at a greater rate than when not exercising. This places more strain and dependence on the lungs and can lead to inflammation. If you have allergy-induced asthma, exercising outdoors during high pollen counts can cause severe reactions.
Symptoms
Most symptoms, such as wheezing, will begin between three and eight minutes after beginning exercise, according to National Jewish Health. Symptoms other than wheezing include coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. A person with exercise-induced asthma can easily pass out during an asthma attack that results from strenuous activity because of lack of oxygen to the brain. Monitor symptoms closely during exercise to prevent an asthma attack
Exercise Consideration
People with exercise-induced asthma should not stop daily exercising to combat the disorder. KidsHealth.org states that exercise can help strengthen the lungs and improve asthmatic reactions over time. Low-impact exercise, such as walking, should be incorporated into a daily routine. Maintaining a healthy weight will also help improve asthma and overall health.
Complications
Exercise-induced asthma can lead to certain complications if not maintained. The condition can limit your athletic performance and restrict your ability to play sports professionally. The airways can become permanently narrow, leading to chronic breathing issues, according to MayoClinic.com. Severe asthma attacks can lead to anxiety, lightheadedness and chest pain.
