Sprints demand extreme exertion, and in some cases may induce shortness of breath either during or after the race. However, if you consistently experience difficulty breathing or wheeze while running sprints, it may indicate that you have exercise-induced asthma. These symptoms typically manifest during exertion as airways tighten and generate additional mucus. Exercise-induced asthma does not mean that you need to stop running sprints: a few simple precautions can go a long way.
Symptoms
Tightness in your chest, coughing and fatigue during exercise may indicate exercise-induced asthma. Other symptoms include diminished athletic performance and chest pain. Typically, these symptoms arise during the sprint and may remain in place five to 20 minutes after the sprint.
Environmental Triggers
Breathing problems during sprints may also be triggered by numerous external, or environmental, factors. Sudden shifts in temperature or humidity, and particularly cold, dry air, may trigger asthma symptoms if you're sprinting outdoors. Other triggers include polluted air, high levels of pollen, and harsh chemicals like chlorine, paint fumes, fertilizers and herbicides.
Prevention
Certain precautions can help you continue your sprints while managing your symptoms. An adequate cardiovascular warmup helps the lungs prepare for the more intense demands of the sprint. If you sprint outside, make sure to breathe through your nose to allow the air to pass through your nasal passageways -- these warm up and humidify the air before it passes into your lungs. Another option is to wear a scarf or mask over your mouth while you sprint. Also be mindful not to sprint near freshly mowed grass.
Warning
Breathing difficulties during sprints and exercise-induced asthma do not require that you stop training. However, exercise-induced asthma may contribute to other health complications, such as permanent squeezing of the airways which impairs breathing on a long-term basis. Seek medical counsel if and when exercise-induced asthma symptoms do not abate following your sprints.
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