Asthma and Exercise: An Introduction
Exercise-induced asthma is the development of
asthma symptoms during exercise. This type of
asthma triggers the airways to become narrower, and less air flows through to your lung tissues. For those with exercise-induced
asthma, it can be hard to exercise for more than 30 minutes at a time. Symptoms typically start after 5 to 20 minutes of nonstop exercise, and may include cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and/or chest tightness.
Treating Exercise-Induced Asthma
Regular physical exercise is important for good health. If physical activity brings on asthma symptoms, work with your healthcare provider to find the best way to avoid having symptoms when you exercise.
Some people with asthma use inhaled quick-relief medication before exercising to keep their symptoms under control. If you use your
asthma medication as directed and learn how to pace yourself, you should be able to take part in any physical activity or sport you choose. In fact, many Olympic athletes have asthma.
Warming up and cooling down for at least 15 minutes before and after exercise may help lessen your symptoms. Avoiding exercise in extremely cold temperatures or when pollen levels are high may also help reduce your symptoms.
