Is Exercise Advisable For People With Asthma?
Karina Jacobsen
Many people mistakenly think that those with asthma cannot and
should not exercise. Contrary to this common belief, it is
indeed possible, and even recommended that asthmatics get in
shape and exercise. Exercise and asthma can go together quite
well if proper precautions are undertaken.
Defining Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease. Its symptoms include
shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. Symptoms can be
mild or life threatening. It is thought there is a genetic link
to asthma as well as environmental triggers.
An asthmatic episode can be set off by allergens, exercise, and
respiratory infections. Dust mites and roaches are known to
aggravate asthma and a big part of the management of the
disease is cleaning the living environment to get rid of these
pests.
Controlling Asthma
Follow these tips to help reduce asthmatic episodes:
1. Reduce pet dander by bathing your pets once a week.
2. Do not smoke. Do not let anyone else smoke in your house.
3. Monitor pollen and mold counts. Stay indoors when levels are
high.
4. Wash bedding at least once per week in hot water. Pillows
included.
5. Decrease chances of picking up viral illnesses by washing
hands often.
6. Take a flu shot every year.
7. Protect your airways by covering your mouth and nose with a
scarf in cold weather.
8. Identify your personal triggers and learn how to avoid them.
Exercising with Asthma
Your doctor will probably advise you not to abandon sports or
exercise because you have asthma. You will just need to be
cautious and smart about how you play.
Remember to have your inhaler and medications close by. If you
have been wheezing the day of exercise or the night before,
then go easy until you can determine how your airways will
react.
Exercise Induced Asthma
There is a condition known as exercise induced asthma (EIA).
With EIA, asthmatic symptoms will occur after approximately 10
minutes of exercise and occurs more frequently in dry and cold
air.
Even with exercise induced asthma, you still have a wide
variety of sports to participate in such as swimming, biking,
and team sports.
The most important aspect of controlling your asthma during
exercise and otherwise is to know your triggers and be
consistent in your treatment. Asthma attacks are often easier
to prevent than they are to reverse, So be consistent with
medications and trigger avoidance. Consult with your doctor on
a regular basis and take responsibility for managing and
preventing your symptoms.
About The Author: Karina Jacobsen is a staff writer at
http://www.wellness-digest.com and is an occasional contributor
to several other websites, including
http://www.alternativehealthadvisor.com
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