Exercise-and-asthma

Exercise And Asthma

If you suffer from asthma, you probably think that you

can't exercise properly or safely. Contrary to what

many think of this subject, there are ways that you

can get in shape and exercise, even if you suffer

from asthma.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that is marked by

characteristics such as coughing, wheezing, shortness

of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma tends to occur

with people who are genetically or environmentally

presdisposed to the condition.

Some of the triggers that may start or make an attack

worse include exposure to allergens, viral respiratory

infections, airway irritants, exercise, and exposure

to things such as dust mites or cockroaches.

You can prevent asthma attacks by doing the following:

1. Bathe your pets weekly.

2. Don't smoke or permit smoking in your

home.

3. When mold or pollent counts are high,

you should stay inside with air conditioning.

4. Wash your bedding and any stuffed toys

at least once per week in hot water.

5. Wash your hands every chance you get.

6. Get a flu shot.

7. Wear a scarf over your mouth and nose in

the winter months.

8. Be proactive and know your triggers and

how you should avoid them.

Now that you know what you know about asthma, you

may be wondering where exercise fits in. As most

doctors will tell you, you shouldn't give up on

sports or exercise at all. You just have to be

smart about how you play and take special pre

cautions to avoid attacks.

Almost all doctors agree that the best way to

prevent attacks during exercise is to keep your

inhaler and medication close by. You should never

use the inhaler more than 3 times during a game

or exercise session. If you are up the previous

night with coughing and wheezing, it's always best

to go light with your exercise the next day.

For something known as IEA (Exercise Induced Asthma),

the symptoms are somewhat different, in the fact

that they appear after 6 - 10 minutes of exercise

and will often be worse in cold or dry air.

If you have IEA, there are several activities that

you can enjoy such as swimming, walking, biking,

downhill skiing, and team based sports. There are

many activities for you to choose from, to ensure

you get the exercise you need as well.

Keep in mind that the condition of asthma isn't

"all in your head", it is a real physiological

medical treatment that will require treatment to

prevent and treat. Even though your doctor will

be your best friend in treating asthma, you are

the one who can prevent your symptoms.

Always be smart, take your medication, and be

proactive. Don't let it put you in a life of

misery - as you can enjoy exercise just like

everyone else.

PPPPP

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