Tips for Living With & Managing Asthma

By Dr George Janko - Medical Director, McKinnon Sports Medicine

Asthma is a breathing disorder caused by an over sensitivity of the linings of the airways, leading to constriction of the air ducts in the lungs.

It appears to be hereditary and is brought on by specific irritants, such as infections, dust, pollens, animals, fumes, nervous tension and in some people, vigorous exercise. Studies have shown that asthmatics react more adversely to exercise in dry conditions and cold conditions.

Medications such as Ventolin have made exercise more available to asthmatics. New bronchodilators which help reduce the muscle spasm in the airways leading to asthma, allow for twice daily dosage using sprays.

Preventative medications can reduce the sensitivity of the linings of the airways to irritants and thus reduce the need for Ventolin or other bronchodilators. These preventative medications can also reduce the risk of severe asthma attacks. 

Exercise

Indeed exercise is seen as an important component of living with asthma. With continuous and gradual exercise, the athlete will develop greater respiratory muscle tone and possibly reduce the need for medication.

Obviously aerobic exercise eg. running, swimming or cycling are the best option. For severe asthmatics care should be taken with warm up and cool down and where possible by avoiding exercising in cold conditions (eg. winter mornings).

Asthma need not be a limiting factor in sport. Modern preventative medications make it possible for asthmatics to reach their full potential.

However asthma is still a serious and life threatening disease and should not be taken lightly. Fitness testing can be of great use in designing exercise programs and ensuring asthmatics reach their full potential safely!