Shortness of breath is the sensation of difficult breathing that is unrelated to the level of physical activity. Difficulty breathing after exercise may be a symptom of disease or a drug side effect. Breathing can be affected by different areas of the brain when stimuli connects to nerve endings in the lungs. The rib cage, chest muscles and diaphragm respond to brain signals. Anxiety and fear can increase the perception of breathlessness.
Exercise Induced Asthma
The World Health Organization estimates 300 million people worldwide suffer from asthma. Individuals may have no asthma-related symptoms with the exception of exercise induced asthma. Shortness of breath, wheezing, tight chest, coughing or chest pain after exercise may be signs that you suffer from exercise induced asthma. Cold temperature and dry air are specific triggers related to exercise induced asthma. Breathing through the mouth during intense exercise can bring cold dry air into the lungs, causing them to spasm. Individuals who suspect they may have exercise induced asthma should consult their physician and request a bronchoprovocation challenge test.
Allergies to Mold and Mildew
The National Institutes of Health estimates that 60 percent of the US population with asthma also suffers from allergic asthma. Inhaled mold and mildew can trigger an immune response and inflammatory responses in susceptible individuals.
Inflammation causes the airways to constrict, resulting in shortness of breath. Assess your workout area if you are experiencing breathing difficulties. A fitness center that is not well maintained or a home-based gym in the basement may harbor mold and mildew. Allergy testing by your doctor can determine if shortness of breath after exercise is related to mold and mildew.
Medication Side Effects
Medicated individuals who become short of breath after exercise may be experiencing a side effect related to a drug. Potassium-sparing drugs for heart conditions and premenstrual syndrome may affect breathing. Beta blockers prescribed for heart conditions and migraine suppress respiration. Interferon prescribed for hepatitis and cancer can affect breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing continues to be difficult for an extended period of time after you exercise or you experience other symptoms such as nausea or chest pain.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety affect individuals differently. Shortness of breath is associated with elevated levels of stress and anxiety. An intense exercise program when you are anxious or involved in demanding personal commitments may leave you short of breath. Lack of sleep, extra caffeine and smoking will increase the risk that you will experience breathing problems after exercise. Regular exercise, balanced diet and meditation will reduce stress and decrease the risk you will be short of breath after your workout.
