At least 300 million people in the world suffer from asthma, according to the World Health Organization. Asthma is a chronic lung condition, evident by its continuous inflammation. It can cause symptoms that range from minor wheezing to life-threatening attacks. For many asthma sufferers, physical exertion and vigorous exercise can exacerbate symptoms. You can take steps to enjoy physical activity while still controlling your asthma.
Considerations
The days of protecting and preventing asthmatics from taking part in organized sports in school are essentially a thing of the past, thanks to the overall successful management of the condition through medications and breathing aids including inhalers. In fact, the National Asthma Council in Australia says most people with asthma lead normal lives and can participate in competitive sports.
Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction
Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB), also known as asthma-induced exercise, is a narrowing of the airways that disrupts the normally smooth flow of air from the lungs. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAI), the majority of people with chronic asthma have a flare-up when they exercise. Others may experience EIB even though they don't have persistent asthma problems. Symptoms of EIB include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. They generally erupt after 5 to 10 minutes of exercise.
Recommendations
Asthmatics may reduce or eliminate the symptoms of EIB by warming up before exercising and cooling down upon completion of the workout. You can lower the risk of an EIB attack by taking it easy if you have a viral infection or when air pollution levels are high.
Type of Activities
Certain types of exercises may be less likely than others to trigger an asthma attack. For instance, the warm, moist air swimmers are exposed to tend to guard against EIB. When it comes to team sports, baseball and football may be less problematic than basketball or soccer because they require brief bursts of exertion as opposed to continuous movement. Walking, hiking and moderate bicycling are also good exercise options.
Treatment
The AAAAI recommends talking to your doctor about the best treatment for exercise-induced asthma. Symptoms may be prevented with short-acting beta-agonists such as albuterol. Beta-agonists are very effective in opening bronchial airways. Inhalers and oral solutions are available.
Precautions
Feeling mildly out of breath or fatigued when you exercise is normal, especially if you aren't in top shape. Severe asthma attacks are potentially fatal, and it's crucial to seek immediate medical treatment
Outlook
You don't have to become sedentary simply because you have asthma. In fact, regular exercise can help strengthen your heart and lungs, which actually helps diminish asthma symptoms. Make sure to start slowly if you've been inactive, but ultimately try to get 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
Member Comments