Athletes
are the most susceptible to exercise induced asthma and it is much more
common is this group than in the general public.
In exercise-induced
asthma, the bronchial airway narrows substantially after vigorous exercising.
The end result is difficulty in moving air out of the lungs. As a result
shortness of breath and wheezing will take place while and after exertion.
Most people
with “chronic asthma” will experience the same EIA symptoms after exercise
along with the usual (chronic asthma) symptoms.
However in “exercise
induced asthma” the asthma itself is normally without the typical signs
or symptoms and are somewhat hidden until it flares up after physical exertion.
Symptoms
The symptoms
of exercise induced asthma are shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness
of the chest. Often there is coughing that produces more than the normal
amount of sputum.
The end results
of an EIA flare vary and sometimes are less intense for instance in the
middle of or after exercise symptoms are not always so profound but may
be nominal with signs of weariness, stomach pain, and at times slight chest
pain.
Cold and dry
winter weather is a common time to experience EIA attacks. A moister and
warmer type of weather may decrease symptoms. Unfortunately, it is well
known that pollen and mold in the warm seasons may trigger an asthma assault.
Diagnosis
The physician
may use different methods to confirm the EIA diagnosis. A peak-flow meter
will calculate how quickly you can exhale air in one breath. The amount
will be less than normal while having a flare of EIA.
Treatment
The treatment
for chronic asthma and exercise induced asthma are different. As a result,
the doctor will want to determine which one you may have. Tests will be
done to make this determination.
The most customary
treatment for EIA is inhaled medication (a bronchodilator) used to dilate
or expand the airways and allow unrestricted passage of air. The medication
is used about 15 minutes before exercising and will open the constricted
airways to provide temporary relief of symptoms. The medication should
furnish approximately 4 to 6 hours of relief.
Some common
examples are theophylline, aminophylline, proventil, and abuterol. Your
physician may choose to order an oral medication to be taken daily along
with the inhalant. The standard EIA attack is not, as a general rule, life
threatening enough to require hospitalization.
By changing
methods of exercising some of the symptoms of exercise induced asthma may
be reduced.
Because some
seasons are worse for allergens than others and if you are especially susceptible
to certain pollens then choose the days to exercise that are less apt to
cause problems. Warming up exercises will help to relax and enlarge airways.
Exercising in
an area where relative humidity is present for instance, by a pool may
help and swimming is a good form of exercise. Continue to build your cardiovascular
stability by exercise, a healthy body and heart can reduce manifestations
of EIA. It is true that cold and dry air is a factor in EIA so a covering
over the nose and mouth may help avoid symptoms brought about by strenuous
outside physical activities.
Learning to
deal with symptoms of EIA is advantageous in order to confront and overcome
EIA. With knowledge and understanding you can continue with a full, satisfying
and active lifestyle.
