Understanding Exercise Induced Asthma Attacks And How To Prevent Them

If you have an asthma condition, then it is wise to seek out asthma treatment from an allergy and asthma specialist. This specialist will likely work with you to pinpoint your asthma triggers so they can be avoided. Exercise is often a common trigger for both children and adults. If you have recently been diagnosed with asthma, then this may be confusing to you. Keep reading to understand why exercise can lead to asthma and also what you can do to avoid the issue.

Why Does Exercise Cause Asthma?

Exercise can lead to an asthma attack for a variety of reasons. When you exercise, you breathe harder due to your body's increased demand for oxygen. You also tend to breathe through your mouth as you exercise. This forces a great deal of cold and dry air to enter the lungs. This type of air can cause the airways in the lungs to narrow and an asthma attack then occurs. 

If you exercise outside, then you may also inhale a number of pollutants that can contribute to asthma attacks. Vehicle pollution released into the environment, smoke, and pollen are a few possible triggers. 

How Can You Control The Asthma Attacks?

You should know that while exercise may be an asthma trigger, activity can help to strengthen the lungs. Also, exercise strengthens the muscles so they become more efficient. Efficient muscles use less oxygen and place less demand on the lungs as you exercise. This means that you should not avoid activity. In other words, you should continue to exercise even if it can trigger an asthma attack.

There are some things you can do to reduce the chances of an asthma attack occurring while you exercise. You can wear a scarf over the mouth and nose. This can help to warm the cool air so it is less likely to trigger an episode. Also, try to exercise in a moist environment. If you are indoors, then set a humidifier by your exercise space. 

You want to start with less taxing exercise to begin as well. For example, a beginning aerobics regimen may be wise. Warm up before starting to work out. Running in place, jumping jacks, push ups, and sit-ups are all good exercises used to warm up. 

If you participate in non-strenuous activities and notice asthma attacks developing, then you can ask your physician for a rescue inhaler. If you use the inhaler before you exercise, then this can greatly reduce your chances of having an asthma attack. For more information, contact a company like Allergy Associates.


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