Things to Know for Asthma Sufferers While They Work Out

It's possible for asthma sufferers to be able to carry out an exercise program. But just what will people with asthma have to be watchful of when exercising? The answer is: if you exhibit caution you can and should carry out nearly any exercise program. With appropriate treatment, almost everyone with asthma can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise.

Asthma is the chronic inflammation of the air passages that lead to the lungs. Its characteristics are sudden attacks followed by periods of moderate or no symptoms at all. This inflammation will be triggered by external factors, and when a person with asthma becomes exposed to one of these triggers, the breathing passages become inflamed and the symptoms begin.

With exercise induced asthma, symptoms usually appear six to ten minutes after exercise begins, and is often worse in cold, dry conditions. If you have been up the previous night with asthma symptoms, it is best to go easier with your exercise routine the next day. Your doctor should be able to guide you best through your treatment of the condition, but it is imperative that you be proactive and understand the circumstances. You are the first line of defense against an asthma attack, so take your medication and know what you are going to do when you feel symptoms coming on.

Some facts to know when it comes specifically to exercise induced asthma:

1. When exercising, attempt to breathe through the nose. When you breathe through your mouth, air comes into your lungs that are colder and drier. An asthma attack can be triggered when this colder, drier air collides with the warm, moist air in the lungs. Breathing through the nose as much as possible will warm the air and cleanse it prior to hitting your lungs.

People with exercise induced asthma are thought to be more sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. Bikram Yoga helps to alleviate this by giving you an excellent exercise regimen in conditions that are high in humidity and temperature. After an initial breathing exercise, all breathing is to be done through the nose. You may want to look into it if you suffer from asthma.

2. Exercise induced asthma can attack people who have no other triggers and experience no asthma symptoms under any other circumstances.

3. When asthma is left untreated and inflammation persists, narrowing of the airways on a permanent basis can occur. There are medications that are used to prevent the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

4. Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled by medication. Those with exercise induced asthma and no other symptoms, medication can be taken before exercise to control the symptoms. There are a number of elite athletes who have asthma, which should be inspiration enough for anyone who has asthma to seek ways to control it.

Aerobic training certainly doesn't have to stop is you have asthma. People who have asthma have certain issues that people who are asthma-free do not have to cope with. But with proper medication, assistance from a qualified professional, and plan on how to cope both before any symptoms set in or if emergencies should arise, everyone should be able to partake in their favorite exercise program.