Exercise Induced Chest Congestion

If you experience chest congestion during exercise, you may have exercise-induced asthma. About 1 in 15 Americans has asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The condition is more common in children than adults. Several types of asthma have been identified. Contact with some kind of allergen, irritant or secondhand smoke may trigger an attack. Inexplicably, exercise can also cause this condition.

Definition

Exercise-induced chest congestion or asthma occurs because of inflammatory response by your body. The body releases histamine, which in turn causes the constriction of airways and production of mucus. You may find yourself wheezing or coughing. You may experience chest tightness or shortness of breath. Though the effects mimic an allergic response, the symptoms are triggered by exercise. They can occur during or after an exercise session. Its precise cause is unknown.

Triggers

Certain environmental factors may cause exercise-induced chest congestion. Cold air or dry air may trigger an event. You may also experience these symptoms if air quality is impaired due to smog or particulate pollution. Some individuals may find that high pollen counts aggravate their condition. Some activities may also leave you feeling uncomfortable. You may be more likely to experience an attack while cross-country skiing or playing soccer. However, your condition does not mean that you cannot exercise but that you must take precautions.

Prevention

One of the best ways to avoid an attack is to determine the triggers of your condition. That way, you can avoid the situations or activities that will cause your chest congestion. Because being out of shape can worsen your condition, make it a priority to improve your physical fitness. Your workouts should include a warm-up session, followed by a short interval of exercise. You can increase your exercise time as you become more fit. The USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion recommends that you set an exercise goal of 150 minutes a week.

When to See the Doctor

If you have not been diagnosed with asthma, consult your doctor regarding your symptoms. She may prescribe an inhaler that you can keep on hand for quick relief when you exercise. In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe maintenance medication to keep your symptoms under control. You also find that breathing through your nose rather than your mouth can filter out the irritants in the air that are causing your symptoms. However, if you feel lightheaded or have pain in your arms or shoulders, seek medical attention immediately.