Exercise-Induced Asthma

What is Exercise-Induced Asthma

Exercise-induced asthma is a form of asthma that causes problems during or after exercise and physical activity. It causes wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma is a chronic lung disease. However, people can experience exercise-induced asthma during physical exertion without having chronic asthma.

Exercise is an important part of a child’s growth and development. Not only does exercise help children grow physically strong, but mentally strong as well. Exercise induced asthma can greatly hinder a child’s exercise routine, or sideline him altogether.

Symptoms of Exercise-Induced Asthma

The symptoms of exercise-induced asthma generally begin within 5 to 20 minutes after the start of exercise, or 5 to 10 minutes after exercise has stopped. Symptoms include:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Fatigue

Certain environmental conditions such as cold air, high or low humidity, air pollution or elevated air allergens may increase exercise-induced asthma.

How to Reduce Exercise-Induced Asthma

If your child has exercise induced asthma, he or she does not need to avoid all physical activities. There are ways to reduce or eliminate exercise-induced asthma so your child can enjoy the exercise he needs. To reduce exercise-induced asthma:

• Have your child perform warm-up exercises before a vigorous workout
• Avoid strenuous activity in cold, dry air or wear a mask
• Ask your child’s doctor about using a quick-relief medicine 15-30 minutes before exercise

Asthma may interfere with daily activities and exercise, especially during strenuous activities. Knowing the right steps and procedures to improve asthma control will help your child lead a healthy life. If you feel that you are having troubles controlling your child’s asthma, contact your child’s physician.