If you have asthma, you might worry about exercising and triggering breathing difficulties. But the good news is that with proper management, asthma shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying an active lifestyle.
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways in your lungs, making it hard to breathe. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, and feeling unable to continue your activity.
Exercise and Asthma: A Safe Approach
The key to exercising with asthma is understanding your triggers and listening to your body. Triggers vary from person to person but often include weather extremes, allergens, respiratory illnesses, and even exercise itself.
Working with your doctor, you can develop a safe exercise plan. This may involve some trial and error to identify your specific triggers and find the right medications and strategies to manage them.
The 4-Step Plan for Asthma Symptoms During Exercise
If you experience asthma symptoms while working out, remember this simple plan:
- STOP: Immediately cease the activity.
- USE: Use your rescue inhaler as prescribed.
- REST: Take a break until you feel better.
- DISCONTINUE: Avoid the activity that triggered your symptoms for the rest of the day.
Planning Ahead for Safe Workouts
Using your inhaler 30 minutes before exercise can often prevent symptoms. Planning is key to managing asthma during workouts.
Asthma Can Develop at Any Age
It’s important to remember that asthma can develop at any point in life. Don’t dismiss symptoms like shortness of breath or chest tightness as simply being out of shape. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor for an evaluation.
Living an Active Life with Asthma
With the right approach and medical guidance, you can safely exercise and enjoy an active lifestyle, even with asthma. Don’t let asthma hold you back – take control and keep moving!
Source: Virtua Health