EXERCISE INDUCED ASTHMA

Exercise is a common trigger of asthma.  It may be the only trigger of asthma in some people, and can significantly limit their ability to engage in exercise and sports.

People with exercise-induced asthma are believed to be more sensitive to changes in the humidity and temperature of air.  At rest, air is normally breathed in slowly through the nose, enabling the air to be sufficiently warmed and humidified before entering the lungs. 

When one exercises, air is breathed in more rapidly, and through the mouth.  The air that gets into the lungs, is thus cooler and drier.  It is this cool and dry air that is believed to trigger an attack.

Fortunately, in those with only exercise-induced asthma, there is no need for maintenance therapy.  Often, all that is required is inhaled ventolin prior to exercise.  Whether you exercise occasionally or engage in competitive sports, exercise-induced asthma should not stop your activities.