If you have asthma it means that your airways are constricted or inflamed, which makes it hard to breathe. There are many things that can trigger an asthma attack. The weather, stress, pollutants, strong odors, certain foods and even exercise can all set off your symptoms. The key to managing your asthma is to learn what your triggers are and then take steps to control your exposure. In general exercise is good for those with asthma. However, you also need to be able to recognize the signs of an exercise induced asthma attack so you can prevent your attack from becoming severe.
Shortness of Breath
If your asthma is triggered by exercise you will usually develop symptoms within 5 to 20 minutes of beginning your activity. You may begin to feel out of breath, have trouble taking a breath, start wheezing and you may cough. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that in some cases a cough is the only symptom of exercise induced asthma. The above symptoms are more likely to occur if your exercise session is too strenuous.
Chest Tightness
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, as your airways narrow, along with the previously stated symptoms your chest may begin to feel tight and constricted. If your attack becomes severe you may have chest pain. You may find that your symptoms tend to be worse when you are exercising in cold weather or when the air is very dry. Breathing through the nose during exercise so your nasal passages can warm and purify the air may help. You also need to be mindful of air quality and pollutants when exercising outside as they can contribute to your attacks. In most cases your symptoms should resolve within 30 minutes of stopping the activity. However in some cases symptoms can last up to 24 hours.
Fatigue
Having an exercise induced asthma attack can also make you fatigued. If your body is not getting the oxygen it needs, you may get tired and have to stop whatever activity you were doing. If you are new to exercise or or deconditioned you may need to start off slowly to allow your body to adapt and get stronger. The Mayo Clinic suggests that taking asthma medication or using an inhaler as prescribed by your physician before exercise may help to prevent attacks. See your doctor if your exercise induced asthma does not respond to your medication.
