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Asthma and Exercise

Exercise is a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle but it also requires physical stamina and discipline. However, for people with asthma brought on by exercise, catching a breath after exercise may pose an even bigger challenge than the exercise itself.

By OC FamilyPublished: August, 2006

Exercise is a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle but it also requires physical stamina and discipline. However, for people with asthma brought on by exercise, catching a breath after exercise may pose an even bigger challenge than the exercise itself.

People with asthma are not only dealing with their physical condition but a medical condition as well. Simply breathing can be a constant challenge. Furthermore, the bronchial tubes of people with asthma are sensitive. They may react to smoke, pollen, dust, air pollution, allergies, or other “triggers,” including exercise, by tightening and becoming inflamed and swollen. This tightening or swelling makes it difficult for air to pass easily through the bronchial tubes.

However, exercise trains the breathing muscles to work better. It helps a person maintain ideal body weight and helps the body work more efficiently – all of which helps a person feel better about him or herself.

With proper precautions, almost anyone with asthma can participate in regular physical activity and have the opportunity to develop a healthy, active lifestyle. Through careful management of their asthma, individuals can even become competitive athletes in any sport they choose.

Talk with your doctor about exercising with asthma. Find out if you would benefit from using your prescribed medication prior to physical activity. Play it safe, and remember to always have your emergency medication with you.

Please remember that choosing the right exercise will help you find exercise more enjoyable. Jogging, biking or playing tennis, for example, may be too strenuous for some individuals who might do better with walking or swimming. Whatever you choose, be certain to monitor your activity and watch for warning signs, such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing and tightness of the chest.

For more information or to bring an Exercise and Asthma Training program to your community, please contact the American Lung Association at 800.LUNG.USA or your local office at 714.835.5864.

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