Exercise-induced asthma

Dear Wheezer and Loves lax-hates running,

A good aerobic workout can make you feel the burn, but gasping for air may be a sign of exercise-induced asthma (EIA) constricting the airway. Despite the extra hurdle, asthma doesn't have put a stop to your athletic endeavors. In fact, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI), many athletes live with asthma, and some even compete at levels as high as the Olympics. As you've noted, some of the symptoms can include coughing and tightness in your chest (more details on the symptoms in a bit). With the treatment that's appropriate for you, you can control your asthma and get back on the field.

Although the triggers may be different, EIA, also known as exercised-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), is similar to other forms of asthma. That tight feeling in your chest occurs when the main air passages in your lungs, the bronchial tubes, become inflamed (also known as a bronchospasm). During an asthma attack, your bronchial muscles tighten and the lungs produce extra mucus, further clogging the airway. EIA can flare up during a workout or five to ten minutes after physical activity. According to the AAAAI, symptoms may include:

• Wheezing
• Accelerated heart rate
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Unusual paleness or sweating
• Vomiting

Thankfully there are several treatments for EIA, so there's no need to put away your lacrosse stick, Loves lax-hates running. Like other kinds of asthma, EIA can be controlled with prescription medications, usually delivered through an inhaler (a device that delivers medication to the lungs). Depending on the severity of your asthma, you may be able to use a short-acting inhaler that you pump just before physical activity, or you may need a longer-acting inhaler that you use every day. A health care provider can perform specific tests to assess your condition and, if necessary, prescribe the appropriate treatment.

In addition to medications, simple changes to your physical activity routine may ward off asthma. People with EIA have airways that are overly sensitive to rapid changes in temperature and humidity. Typically, inhaling through the nose delivers moist warm air to the lungs. However, during strenuous physical activity people often breathe in heavily through the mouth, which sends colder, drier air to the lungs. To avoid an asthma attack, the Mayo Clinic recommends the following prevention techniques:

• Cover your mouth and nose while working out in cold weather.
• Warm up for ten minutes before an intense workout.
• Breathe through your nose while being physically active.
• Take a break or use your inhaler if you have trouble breathing.
• Avoid physical activity if you have a cold.

The type of physical activity you do can also affect exercise-induced asthma. Swimming may aggravate it less because it's done in a warm, humid environment and in a horizontal position, which helps mobilize mucus from the bottom of the lungs. For Loves lax-hates running, this may explain why your asthma didn't kick in until you started to play lacrosse. Sports involving short bursts of energy are also recommended, such as short distance track and field events, golf, baseball, football, wrestling, and gymnastics. For those who can't tolerate these activities, walking, light jogging, and leisurely biking and hiking are recommended. Running is the activity most likely to induce asthma. Other sports that are more likely to aggravate airways include long distance non-stop activities such as treadmill running, cycling, basketball, field hockey, and soccer.

Hope this information leaves you breathing easier!