Exercise and asthma

Regular physical activity is an important part of a good asthma management plan. In the past, people with asthma were told to avoid sports and vigorous exercise. But, now researchers realize that exercise can increase physical fitness, improve self-esteem and confidence and increase feelings of well-being.

What is exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB)?
If your asthma is under control, you should be able to exercise normally. However, exercise can sometimes cause airways to become tight and narrow, a response known as exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB).

While the exact cause of EIB isn't known, it is probably due to changes in the temperature and humidity of the air as it enters your lungs. When you exercise, you tend to breathe more through your mouth, which means that your nose can't warm and humidify the air entering your lungs. And, as your breathing becomes quicker and deeper during exercise, the airways become cooler and dryer, further aggravating your symptoms.

The value of exercise almost always outweighs the risks associated with EIB. However, it is important to treat the symptoms of EIB properly, especially in children. If the symptoms aren't recognized and managed, you may be tempted to reduce your exercise levels to avoid the uncomfortable symptoms. This will lead to a vicious cycle of inactivity that will seriously undermine your physical health.

Managing the symptoms of EIB

To reduce the symptoms of EIB, you should:

•	Avoid exercising on days when you already are having breathing difficulties.
•	Take your medications before any program of vigorous activity.
•	Start your exercise with a brief warm-up period - walking and flexibility exercises will help to prepare your body for more active exercise.
•	Start your exercise intensity at low levels and increase the level of activity as your fitness improves.
•	In cold weather, wear a scarf or mask over your mouth to warm and humidify the air you breathe.
•	Exercise indoors if pollutants or pollen-counts are high.
•	Don't stop your exercise abruptly - make sure your program includes a 10-minute cool-down.
•	Avoid foods that may cause allergic reactions just before exercise - shrimp, celery, peanuts, egg whites, almonds and bananas have been associated with increases in EIB.
•	Pregnant women with asthma should exercise under the supervision of their doctor.

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