Asthma and Exercise in Charlottesville

Individuals who develop chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing or cough following exercise may have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. This implies that there is a transient narrowing of breathing tubes during exercise which results in the above-mentioned symptoms. It is also important to note that certain individuals with allergies may have similar symptoms during exercise. It is believed that individuals with exercise-induced asthma or bronchoconstriction are particularly sensitive to certain environmental stimuli such as dry air, low temperature, high pollen levels and air pollutants. Similarly, respiratory infections, nasal allergy and vocal cord problems may predispose an individual to have similar symptoms.

Individuals suffering from tightness of chest and/or wheezing should undergo an examination by your allergist, who may then recommend a breathing test called spirometry and also, possibly an exercise challenge test. Thereafter, your allergist will help develop a treatment plan for you. It has been found that exercise-induced bronchoconstriction that is associated with more generalized asthma can be prevented with controller medications taken regularly or by using medicines before you exercise. Furthermore, when such bronchoconstriction symptoms occur, they can be treated with short-acting beta-agonists.

It is important to note that the goal of an asthma treatment plan is to keep your symptoms under control so that you can enjoy exercising or sports activities. With careful assessment, proper diagnosis and optimal treatment, majority of such individuals can participate and excel in sports or other outdoor activities.

(Information only; not intended to replace medical advice; adapted from AAAAI)