Asthma is an inflammatory response which narrows the airways. Because the airways produce extra mucus, breathing becomes very difficult at times. The main treatment goal for asthma is to support a healthy lifestyle, including adequate physical activity. Exercise is important to maintain proper lung functioning and keep the airways open. However, it should be done under the close supervision of a health care practitioner to ensure adequate safety.
Asthma
The Mayo Clinic describes asthma as a respiratory condition characterized by wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and coughing. For some individuals, asthma symptoms are a minor setback while for others, it is a major problem that interferes with daily activities. Treatment for asthma includes taking steps to avoid particular asthma triggers, using long-term medications to prevent flare-ups and using quick-relief inhalers to control symptoms once they start. It is important to work closely with a health care practitioner to understand the signs and symptoms of asthma and when adjustments in treatment may be needed.
Symptoms
Asthma symptoms vary from person to person. Between flare-ups, individuals may feel fine and have almost no sign of asthma or they may be evident at nighttime, during exercise or after exposure to a specific trigger. The Mayo Clinic reports that common asthmatic signs and symptoms include shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, trouble sleeping due to coughing, an audible wheezing sound when exhaling and bouts of coughing that are worsened by a respiratory virus or cold. Asthma may be induced upon certain situations, for example exercise-induced asthma or allergy-induced asthma.
Exercising with Asthma
According to America's Authority on Fitness, many people with asthma feel that exercise is not an option for them and that it may do more harm than good. This is not true, however, as most asthmatics benefit from some form of regular exercise. It is a good idea for individuals with asthma to discuss exercise options with a physician, as physical activity is a desirable option for most asthmatics. Exercise helps build up a tolerance for physical exertion over time, making it less likely that an asthmatic will experience an attack during exercise. Increased physical activity actually aids in proper lung function and opening of the airways.
The Best Exercise
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology recommends exercise that has stop-and-go activity for asthma patients, not long periods of high-intensity exercise. In addition, weather conditions are important as cold air and very dry air can be irritating to the bronchial tubes. Warm, moist air generally allows people with asthma to exercise more successfully. For this reason, swimming, water aerobics and even walking in the pool are beneficial to individuals who suffer from asthma.
Other Benefits
All About Asthma explains that the benefits of regular exercise extend beyond the lungs to keeping the heart, bones and digestive system healthy. Keeping the mind and body active is very important. However, individuals with asthma should always work with their doctor to create a fitness plan, let other exercisers know they have asthma, gradually increase their activity level, take medication as prescribed, especially emergency inhalers, and ensure proper warm-up and warm-down techniques are used. Physical activity can reduce the risk of many health conditions while improving lung function, reducing stress and improving energy. Exercise should be a component of a healthy asthmatic lifestyle.
