Exercise and Asthma

Asthma causes a constriction of the bronchial tubes and swelling of their mucous membranes. These tubes and mucous membranes are overly sensitive to certain irritants in the air such as pollen, house dust, animal hair, or other types of irritants. When affected, these tubes swell up, cause resistance to ventilation, and the person has a corresponding shortness of breath.

Exercise is also a trigger to asthma and has even gained its own label; 'Exercise Induced Asthma'. As a result, persons with asthma should be highly cautious when performing exercise and should follow these guidelines.

Exercise Tips

- Always carry an asthma inhaler when exercising and let others know where it is placed.
- Use an extensive warm-up period before you exercise. Attempt to warm up with at least ten minutes of gentle exercise before starting.
- Avoid exercising in an environment where dust and other particles may trigger an attack.
- Cardiovascular exercise is ideal as it uses the respiratory system in a long-time controlled manner.
- Cold, dry air conditions often trigger an asthma attack. Exercising later in the day when the temperature is higher will reduce the chance of an attack.
- Swimming or water aerobics are great exercises for asthmatics as the ambient air is warm and moist.
- If the asthma is severe, consider seeing a doctor for medication that may help. If left untreated severe asthma can cause chronic lung damage.

Swimming is a great exercise for asthmatics. The air temperature facilitates easy breathing and swimming is a great exercise for the respiratory system. Dedicate at least one day of a training program to the pool. The benefits will be an increased lung capacity and a higher threshold against future asthma attacks.
If you have an ailment that makes exercising difficult be sure to consult a doctor before starting an exercise program.