About 80 percent to 90 percent of asthmatics have exercise-induced asthma, according to an article on the Alabama Allergy and Asthma Center website, but people suffering from this condition may not have other asthma symptoms, says the American Lung Association. Exercise may induce asthmatic symptoms in a child or teen performing sport activities in gym class, or an adult working out at a community center. These symptoms are uncomfortable, but a few precautions and exercise modifications make exercise possible for those who are susceptible.
Identification
Lung passageway inflammation causes airway swelling and excess mucous production. This condition, called asthma, makes it difficult to breathe. While often associated with cold weather outdoor activities, dust mites, mold and other indoor allergens may trigger exercise-induced asthma, says University of New Mexico exercise physiologist Dr. Len Kravitz, in an article on his website.
Effects
During the normal breathing process, the nasal passages protect the airway by warming and moistening the incoming air. People sensitive to allergens and certain weather conditions have a different response. Their airway muscles constrict, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness as symptoms, as well as abdominal discomfort, cramps and headaches.
Time Frame
Exercise-induced asthma symptoms usually begin within the first five to 20 minutes of exercise, according to information listed on The Ohio State University medical Center website. The results of a 1994 study published in "Medicine and Science in Sport and Exercise" indicate that a 15-minute warmup at 60 percent of maximum heart rate may decrease the broncho-constriction associated with exercise-induced asthma.
Prevention/Solution
Gym custodial staff can create an allergy safe environment by reducing indoor humidity by 60 percent and preventing mold by fixing leaky faucets and cleaning moldy areas. If cold weather is the cause of exercise-induced asthma, teachers should provide susceptible students with alternative indoor gym activities during the physical education period.
Expert Insight
Asthma specialists at National Jewish Health suggest using a portable, hand-held peak flow meter to monitor exercise-induced asthma symptoms. Peak flow numbers drop when asthma narrows the airways. Significant peak flow number drops indicate that you need more asthma medication or a short rest from exercise. Special inhaled medications provide pre-treatment for people with exercise-induced asthma. The American Lung Association urges school personnel need to learn about about exercise-induced asthma, and take the necessary precautions. Restricting children from gym class is not an acceptable option, because properly monitored exercise improves the child's overall health.
References
- Alabama Allergy Center: Information for the Physical Education Teacher Regarding Asthma
- University of New Mexico Len Kravitz: Exercise Induced Asthma
- The Ohio State University Medical Center: Exercise and Asthma
- Medicine and Science in Sport and Exercise ; The Protective Effects Of Continuous And Interval Exercise In Athletes With Exercise-Induced Asthma
- American Lung Association: Recommended Component: Manage Physical Activity for Students with Asthma
- National Jewish: Exercise Induced Asthma
