Asthma sufferers know full well that there are a number of potential triggers
and risks that can make their condition worse. Aside from common triggers
such as dust, mold, cold weather, and high pollen counts, some people,
especially those with untreated asthma, find that exercise can be a significant
trigger for symptoms. While exercise can certainly pose risks when asthma
is uncontrolled, it has been found that exercise and physical activity
can actually help asthma!
Exercise can have a number of benefits when it comes to keeping
asthma in check. There are several reasons why regular physical activity can
help improve asthma and reduce symptoms:
- Increases lung strength
- Increase in oxygen intake
- Improved function of muscles used during breathing
- Promotes healthy weight
- Strengthens immune system
Exercise is one of the most important things a person can do to improve
their overall health, and it has been found to also help asthma sufferers
breathe better not only when they exercise, but also when they are not.
For some, especially those with
exercise-induced asthma, exercise may seem like a counterintuitive way to deal with symptoms,
since exercise itself can be a trigger. With a gradual progression into
exercise, a program for physical activity created by your doctor, and
regular activity, however, you can effectively begin to strengthen your
lungs to tolerate more exercise.
Asthma does not have to put an end to all activity or keep you on the sidelines.
It may surprise you, but there are many professional and world-class athletes
who excel at their sports while managing asthma. By adequately managing
your condition and improving your lung function, you can safely enjoy
many types of exercise.
When it comes to exercise, especially when just beginning a new regimen,
there are certain forms of physical activity that you can do that will
be less likely to trigger symptoms or an attack. According to specialists
from the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, physical
activity involving short bursts of activity, such as periods of stop and
go, are less likely to trigger symptoms than longer periods of continuous
activity, like long distance running. Safe activities can include:
- Low-impact walking
- Swimming
- Bicycling
- Weight lifting
- Intermittent running
It is important to note that where and when you exercise can also have
an impact on your condition, as certain factors can exacerbate symptoms
and make them worse. Running outdoors in colder months, for example, can
trigger symptoms, as well as exercising outside when pollen counts are
high. Even if you engage in an exercise plan, you should still be aware
of other factors than can contribute to symptoms or an attack.
Having helped numerous children and adults throughout the Atlanta metro
area efficiently manage their asthma, our specialists at the Center for
Allergy and Asthma of Georgia know how to fully assess, evaluate, and
help patients find the lasting relief they need. We also value the importance
of working closely with patients, educating them about their condition,
and assisting them in developing plans to not only treat and manage symptoms,
but find ways to improve their condition through physical activity.
Prior to starting any exercise plan when you have asthma should always
be done with the assistance of an experienced doctor. Remember, exercise
and other factors can trigger symptoms and attacks, especially if a condition
has been unmanaged. Because of this, it is important to meet with a doctor
who can provide medications, such as fast acting inhalers, which you can
have in the event of an exercise-induced attack. Our specialists can help
determine if medications are beneficial to you, and explain when, in what
dosage, and how they should be used.
If you or your child has been suffering with asthma that prevents you from
leading the full and active life you want, it may be time to seek professional
medical assistance. Our team at the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia
knows that this condition can impact our patients’ quality of life,
which is why we view our role in their health as a fundamental component
of helping them improve their lives. We are readily available to meet
with you, conduct a thorough evaluation, and begin a tailored treatment
plan that helps you manage your unique condition. We can also provide
information to help you manage asthma through exercise.
For more information about our services, our team, and how we can help you,
contact one of our conveniently located offices or schedule an appointment online.