Defining Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease. Its symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. Symptoms can be mild or life threatening. It is thought there is a genetic link to asthma as well as environmental triggers.

An asthmatic episode can be set off by allergens, exercise, and respiratory infections. Dust mites and roaches are known to aggravate asthma and a big part of the management of the disease is cleaning the living environment to get rid of these pests.

Controlling Asthma

Follow these tips to help reduce asthmatic episodes:

1. Reduce pet dander by bathing your pets once a week.
2. Do not smoke. Do not let anyone else smoke in your house.
3. Monitor pollen and mold counts. Stay indoors when levels are high.
4. Wash bedding at least once per week in hot water. Pillows included.
5. Decrease chances of picking up viral illnesses by washing hands often.
6. Take a flu shot every year.
7. Protect your airways by covering your mouth and nose with a scarf in cold weather.
8. Identify your personal triggers and learn how to avoid them.

Exercising with Asthma

Your doctor will probably advise you not to abandon sports or exercise because you have asthma. You will just need to be cautious and smart about how you play.
Remember to have your inhaler and medications close by. If you have been wheezing the day of exercise or the night before, then go easy until you can determine how your airways will react.

Exercise Induced Asthma

There is a condition known as exercise induced asthma (EIA). With EIA, asthmatic symptoms will occur after approximately 10 minutes of exercise and occurs more frequently in dry and cold air.

Even with exercise induced asthma, you still have a wide variety of sports to participate in such as swimming, biking, and team sports.

The most important aspect of controlling your asthma during exercise and otherwise is to know your triggers and be consistent in your treatment. Asthma attacks are often easier to prevent than they are to reverse, So be consistent with medications and trigger avoidance. Consult with your doctor on a regular basis and take responsibility for managing and preventing your symptoms.