Most people suffer from the occasional cough, especially during an upper respiratory infection. But if you frequently find yourself coughing during running exercises, you may have a more serious condition, such as exercise-induced asthma or gastroesophageal reflux disease. If you're exercising outdoors, you may also be suffering from the effects of air pollution. See your doctor to determine the cause of your coughing during running exercises.
Upper Respiratory Infection
If you had an upper respiratory infection such as a cold or the flu within the last two months, your coughing spells during your running workouts may represent a lingering reminder of that infection, according to the University of Cincinnati's NetWellness site. It's possible for such a virus-related cough to stick around for six to eight weeks in some cases, and exercise can trigger coughing spells. If your cough worsens, check with your physician about prescription treatment.
Exercise-induced Asthma
Exercise-induced asthma represents another common cause of coughing during running exercises. According to Columbia University, cold, dry air can trigger asthma in susceptible individuals when they breathe hard during running or other activities. Your physician can use several specific medical tests, such as a peak flow meter, to determine if you have exercise-induced asthma. If you do have the condition, try inhalers or other prescription medications to manage your symptoms so that you can continue your workouts.
GERD
Coughing during running and other forms of exercise also can indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. GERD, commonly known as reflux or heartburn, often causes coughing during heavy exercise when acid from the stomach rises into the esophagus and throat. Other symptoms of GERD include stomach and esophageal burning and pain and trouble swallowing. Your physician can diagnose you with GERD and prescribe medications for the condition.
Air Pollution
If you're running outside in an area with poor air quality -- such as close to a major interstate highway with lots of traffic -- your coughing during your running exercises may reflect your lungs' reaction to air pollution, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System. If this is the case, you may need to switch to indoor exercise activities, especially on hot days when there's an ozone alert from the Environmental Protection Agency.
