Running into breathing problems?

Exercise and Breathing Problems During or after exercise, do you have: shortness of breath wheezing or noisy breathing coughing trouble getting a breath chest tightness unusual fatigue You may have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB)

Exercise and Breathing Problems EIB vs. Exercise-Induced Asthma exercise does not cause asthma but can trigger symptoms EIB can affect people who don’t have asthma

Exercise and Breathing Problems Who has EIB? 80 percent to 90 percent of people with asthma, including children 10 percent of the general population 50 percent of elite athletes Many don’t realize it

Exercise and Breathing Problems What causes EIB? Rapid breathing which irritates and dries out airways Changes in temperature and humidity Breathing through mouth which does not warm and humidify air

Exercise and Breathing Problems How do I find out if I have EIB? See an allergist who will: Take medical history Ask about symptoms Do an exam Measure how lungs are work

Exercise and Breathing Problems How is EIB treated? Your allergist develops treatment plan, medicines might include: Quick-relief medicine taken 15 minutes to 20 minutes before exercise to open airways, also carried while exercising Long-term control medicine taken every day to treat the inflammation of the airways and help prevent symptoms

Exercise and Breathing Problems What else can I do to prevent EIB? Warm up at least 10 minutes before exercise Breathe through the nose Use a face mask or scarf in cold weather Limit exercise in cold weather or if you have a virus

Exercise and Breathing Problems What else can I do to prevent EIB? Cool down after exercise Avoid exercising outside when pollen counts are high if you have allergies

Exercise and Breathing Problems What type of exercise triggers EIB? Endurance sports –running– soccer –biking– basketball –cross-country skiing – ice hockey

Exercise and Breathing Problems What type of exercise should I do? Sports less likely to cause problems –Walking –Hiking –Golf –Baseball –Football –Gymnastics –Shorter track and field events –Swimming

Exercise and Breathing Problems When should I see an allergist? Your allergist can help you find relief, especially if breathing problems: Stop you from exercising Decrease your quality of life Include warning signs of asthma

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