Tips to remember: Exercise-Induced Asthma

Do you experience difficulty breathing, wheezing or chest tightness while exercising? If so, you may have a condition called exercise-induced asthma (EIA).

Symptoms of EIA such as difficulty breathing may occur within the first 15-20 minutes of exercise. Other symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and possibly chest pain. Because the symptoms usually occur during early exercise take some extra time to thoroughly warmup. This will allow the respiratory system to adapt to changes. Also, if you are on medication, be sure to take it well before your workout.

If you have EIA you may be oversensitive to sudden changes in temperature and humidity, especially when breathing colder, drier air. Choose an environment that has consistent, warmer and more humid air. You will sweat more in this atmosphere so be sure to bring a sports drink.

When choosing your place to workout make sure the air is clean. Inquire if they have a good air filtration system. Any air pollutants could trigger asthma.

Try nose breathing during exercise. As your exercise becomes more strenuous you should find yourself both nose and mouth breathing. If you solely mouth breathe, air is not allowed to pass through the nasal passages for warming and humidifying before it reaches the lungs.

Some research has indicated that EIA asthma may be reduced during early morning exercise. One study found lung spasms to be 30% higher in the evening exercisers than in the early morning exercisers.

Exercise is beneficial to the health and well being of us all. If you think you have EIA first see a health care professional and get the right diagnosis and any helpful medications. Then, follow some of the common sense guidelines above to benefit fully from your exercise program.