Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) causes breathlessness and wheezing during exercise due to airway constriction and excessive mucus. Environmental factors like allergens, pollution, and chemicals can trigger symptoms. High-impact workouts increase the chances of asthma attacks. Diagnosis involves physical exams and lung function tests. Treatment involves inhaled bronchodilators and medication. Regular exercise can relieve symptoms, but complications include permanent airway constriction and decreased physical stamina. Smokers, obese individuals, and those with allergies are at increased risk.
Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) is an inflammatory condition of the airways that causes an individual to feel breathless or wheezing when exercising. Similar to other forms of asthma, AIS symptoms are the result of constriction of the airways and excessive production of mucus. People with exercise-induced asthma may experience symptoms including chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath. With proper treatment, people with AIS can maintain an active lifestyle.
There is no known cause for exercise-induced asthma, and symptomatic individuals may be affected by a number of different environmental factors. Exercising outside on days when there is a high pollen or allergen count can trigger symptoms. Air pollution and extreme temperatures can also negatively affect an individual with EIA. Excessive exposure to certain chemicals, including insecticides, fertilizers, and paints, can increase the chances that an individual will become symptomatic. Although environmental factors can trigger AIS symptoms, the content of an individual workout can also contribute to its development.
People with AIS should pay close attention to their training regimen and take note of exercises that seem to trigger symptoms. High-impact workouts, such as running or aerobics, can increase the chances of asthma attacks, while slower workouts may not cause any symptoms. Until a diagnosis of AIS can be confirmed, people should avoid strenuous exercise that can cause symptoms.
When exercise-induced asthma is suspected, a doctor performs a physical exam and additional tests to rule out a secondary condition. Heart disease, lung disorders, and medication side effects can cause symptoms that mimic those experienced with EIA. For people known to have asthma, additional tests are done to assess lung function.
There are a variety of tests that are performed to determine whether or not an individual has asthma. Spirometry is the most common diagnostic test performed to confirm inflammatory airway constriction. During spirometry, the individual is asked to breathe out forcefully into a device called a spirometer. Registering below what is considered normal for your age and gender is indicative of airway inflammation or asthma. Other tests used to assess lung function include a nitric oxide test, methacholine challenge test, and peak flow measurement.
Treatment for AIS commonly involves the use of an inhaled bronchodilator, which helps with opening constricted airways and symptom control. In some cases, medications may be prescribed along with the use of an inhaler. People who experience regular symptoms may require a long-term treatment plan to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms. If asthma symptoms are allergy-induced, treatment may include regular allergy desensitization injections.
People diagnosed with AIS are encouraged to continue to exercise. Over time, exercise is beneficial for asthmatics and can relieve symptoms. Complications associated with exercise-induced asthma include permanent constriction of the airways, decreased physical stamina, and persistent cough. People who smoke, are obese, or have existing allergies are at increased risk of developing exercise-induced asthma.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
