Asthma Facts
Asthma is characterized by the inflammation and narrowing of the airways leading to your lungs. The airways produce extra mucus, which makes breathing difficult. Common symptoms are wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness or pain. An asthma attack can be triggered by a variety of things such as dust, pollen, smoke, certain medications, allergies, stress and exercise. Identifying what triggers your asthma is your first step in learning how to manage it.
Physical Activity
You can still enjoy a good workout even if you have exercise-induced asthma. Exercise can actually help. Aerobic exercise makes your lungs work more efficiently. Strength training increases your muscle strength and endurance, making your lungs work less hard when you work out. With a few modifications, you should be able to do any type of physical activity you wish. If you have never exercised or have not exercised in a while, check with your doctor before getting started.
What to Do
Cold air is a common trigger for an asthma attack, so wear a scarf or face mask to cover your nose and mouth if you decide to go for a jog or run on a cold day, or run on an indoor track. Warming up before and cooling down after a workout can help reduce the chances of an exercise-induced asthma attack. Using quick-relief or long-term control medications such as inhaled short-acting beta-agonists or inhaled corticosteriods, respectively, as directed by your doctor can also help.
Caution
Asthma can be controlled, but it is still a potentially life-threatening condition. Ignoring new or worsening symptoms could be fatal. Call your doctor if your asthma symptoms persist or worsen despite taking your medication. Call 911 immediately if you experience difficulty talking or walking because you are out of breath or your lips or fingernails turn blue.
