suffer from asthma, you probably think you can't exercise properly or safely. Contrary to many people's beliefs, there are ways for you to get better with exercise, even if you have asthma.
If you’re an athlete who have asthma, you don’t have to worry at all. With proper medication and care , you can fully participate in sports. But in colder days, you should take some special precautions because cold dry air can trigger asthma attacks.
Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by such things as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma is most common in people who are genetically predisposed to this condition.
Some of the causes that can start or make the attack worse include allergies, bacterial respiratory infections, irritants, exercise, and exposure to things like dust worms or cockroaches.
You can prevent asthma attacks by doing the following
1. Wash your pets every week.
2. Do not smoke or allow smoking in your home.
3. If mold or pollen is high, you should stay indoors with air conditioning.
4. Wash your bedding and any toys pressed at least once a week in hot water.
5. Wash your hands as often as you can.
6. Get a flu shot.
7. Wear a scarf on your mouth and nose during the winter months.
8. Keep busy and know what causes you and how to avoid it.
Now that you know what you know about asthma, you may be wondering where exercise comes from. As many doctors will tell you, you should never give up sports or exercise. You just have to be careful how you play and take special precautions to avoid being attacked.
Almost all doctors agree that the best way to prevent an attack during exercise is to keep your inhaler and medication close by. You should not use the inhaler more than 3 times during a game or exercise session. If you wake up last night coughing and sneezing, it is best to relax with your exercise the next day.
In what is known as IEA (Asthma Caused by Exercise), the symptoms are somewhat different, as they appear after 6 - 10 minutes of exercise and are usually worse in cold or dry air.
During training or exercise, breathing through a scarf or any kind of clothing can help to pre-warm the air as you breathe harder.
Avoid exercising outdoors in colder temperatures. Find alternate exercise options inside, such as working out at a gym or swimming in an indoor pool.
Wait until any colds or sickness go away before you exercise. Allow your body to fully recover before exercising, especially when you have a cough .
Do 10-minute warm-ups
This can help your airways adjust and is a good habit to form for whenever you exercise
If you have an IEA, there are several activities you can enjoy such as swimming, hiking, cycling, skiing, and team sports. There are many activities for you to choose from, to ensure you get the exercise you need as well.
Remember that asthma "is not all in your head", it is a real physical therapy that will need to be treated to prevent and treat. Even if your doctor is your best friend in treating asthma, you can still prevent your symptoms.
Stay smart, take your medication, and get involved. Don't let it get you into a life of misery - as you can enjoy exercise like everyone else.
You must be logged in to post a comment.