While dust, smoke and cleaning chemicals are popular triggers for asthma attacks, there are some people who can be left struggling for breath after taking even a little exercise.
We are always been told the best way to stay healthy is to eat a diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables and take plenty of exercise.
But for some people, participating in exercise can trigger a dangerous asthma attack.
The cause of exercise induced asthma is not clear, but the rapid intake of dry, cold air is thought to act as a trigger.
The key to avoiding attacks is by taking part in sport that offers regular breaks. There is no point heading off on a long distance run as the rapid breathing will be constant.
Sports such as tennis and football may offer you the chance to catch your breath regularly and take short breaks, which should prevent you from having an attack.
Swimming is the perfect exercise for those suffering from exercise induced asthma as the warm humid air from the pool means it is less likely you will suffer an attack. But you must steer clear of heavily chlorinated pools or cold pools.
Yoga is another exercise that could prove perfect. As well as not inducing rapid breathing, yoga relaxes the muscles and involves breathing exercises.
It is important that exercise induced asthma does not stop you from staying active. An increase in weight due to a lack of activity can put extra strain on your body and do more harm to your condition.
Whatever sport you decide is best for you there are a few important things to remember. Make sure you carry your inhaler with you when you exercise and warm up and down properly. Only do as much sport as you can do comfortably, pushing yourself will only increase your risk of an attack.
Finally, try to avoid cold air while working out. In colder weather move to a sport you can do indoors or cover your mouth and nose with a scarf if you stay outside.
Before deciding on which sport you want to take up, it is always worth consulting your doctor.
Comments are closed.