Having asthma doesn't prevent you from doing physical activity but it can cause you to have an asthma attack. That's why people who have asthma must carry an inhaler with them everywhere they go. So, if you're swimming, hiking or playing basketball, you must have your inhaler nearby in case you get winded.

Asthma attacks have even been known to happen when no physical activity is going on as well. So, to be safe, it's recommended to carry your inhaler in your purse or backpack so you always have it near you in case of an emergency.

When you have asthma, your airways swell and block the flow of air. This causes people to gasp and wheeze when they're having an attack. The muscles around the airways tighten up as well, making it even harder to breathe. This is where the inhaler comes in- it releases a medicine into the lungs that helps to clear the air path and restore normal breathing functions.

Having asthma is a very manageable condition that shouldn't cause a person much worry or concern. If you always keep your inhaler with you, you will be fine. It's when you are engaged in physical activity and don't have your inhaler around that a problem could very well arise. If you or someone around you begins to have an asthma attack without an inhaler nearby, you should call 911. The fire department will have equipment to help the person afflicted to begin breathing normally. So, don't waste any time before dialing for assistance because having an asthma attack is a very serious matter. But, to prevent something like this happening, try not to overexert yourself and keep that inhaler with you at all times!