Dr.Kamini Silvarajan MD/AAAM

Editorial Board: Dr.Kamini Silvarajan MD/AAAM

Asthma Exercising

When you have asthma, your mind will always wonder with negatives thoughts whether you can do the exercise correctly and safely.

There are many things you can do to minimize the chances of an asthma attack while taking small steps to get yourself into better condition physically.

First of all, understand that Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. Attacks can be worsened by lots of things including dust, smoke, allergen exposure or physical exertion.

One important advice is to always keep a rescue medication such as inhaler in hand. For instance if you are playing sport like soccer, basketball or football, make sure your coach has an inhaler in the medical tackle kit for easy access. It is also advisable for your parent or guardian who accompanies you to keep one as a backup measure in case the situation arises.

If you have spent the night coughing or wheezing or if you have a cold and your chest feels constricted, think twice before participating in any extra rigorous activities. Many of those who have 

Asthma already know their personal “triggers” such as what happens if the weather suddenly changes from warm to cold, from warm to super hot or muggy, and what happens to their bodies when it is cold and rainy. A better decision might be to engage in only light to no exercise at all until you feel better.

This type of triggering is called exercise induced Asthma and symptoms can show up quickly, within a few minutes of exercise especially if the weather is colder or the air dryer.

Biking, swimming, walking, and team based sports often work out well for those who are mostly triggered by continuous and strenuous forms of exercise. However, always check with a health care professional before engaging in exercise and to get guidelines which will work best for you.

Even though you may have this physiological condition, with medical treatment, guidance and good prevention strategies, you can still get involved in some form of recreational activity.

If you need a little more encouragement and want to ease into it, you can go for summer asthma camps where there is more direct supervision by staff trained in working with those who have asthma.

Think positive and learn all about your condition and the factors that triggers your attack. Your health care profession will be able to offer you with all the guidance for safety when you in any form of physical activities.

Contrary to what many believe, with the proper education and precautions, and also your responsibility for keeping yourself safe, exercise can be a regular and enjoyable part of your life.