Upper body exercise can flatten the stomach, trim the waistline, strengthen the muscles in the back and neck, and tone the arms. Moderate-to-vigorous activity, however, can produce symptoms like coughing or choking in those suffering from an existing medical condition. Respiratory infections most often cause coughing or wheezing during exercise, but conditions such as acid reflux and asthma can cause a delayed onset of symptoms following physical exertion.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known by the names GERD or acid reflux, is a chronic condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, relaxes, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus. The stomach acid irritates the lining of the esophagus. Exercise can improve GERD in the long-term, but vigorous, upper body exercise can induce symptoms in some sufferers. A persistent cough that develops some time after exercise could be the result of acid reflux, particularly if you suffer from other GERD-related symptoms such as heartburn, sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that results in swollen, constricted airways when exposed to an allergen, or trigger. Common triggers include pollen, dust, mold, exercise and pet dander. Some triggers cause a delayed reaction, resulting in a sudden and unexpected asthma attack some time after exposure. Symptoms of an asthma attack include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Treatment
GERD and asthma share similar symptoms, so it can be difficult to distinguish between the two: both can cause coughing, wheezing and chest discomfort. In severe cases, GERD can also cause shortness of breath. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment, especially if you are having trouble breathing after engaging in upper body exercise. Asthma and GERD can both result in serious health complications if left untreated.
Prevention
Asthma medication should only be taken by those professionally diagnosed with asthma, but over-the-counter drugs like Prevacid and Prilosec or the generic equivalent omeprazole can reduce or eliminate the symptoms of acid reflux. Asthma sufferers sometimes must build up a tolerance for exercise, so reduce the intensity of your upper body workout until you can speak to a doctor about your symptoms.
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