Exercise-induced asthma

Exercise-induced asthma, also known as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), is a condition in which vigorous physical activity triggers acute airway narrowing in individuals. This condition is not exclusive to athletes and can affect anyone participating in physical activities.

Symptoms

The symptoms of exercise-induced asthma typically manifest after several minutes of sustained, vigorous exercise, and may continue for several minutes or even hours if left untreated. These symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and fatigue during exercise.

Causes

Exercise-induced asthma is triggered by vigorous or prolonged exercise or physical exertion. The exact cause of EIB is unknown, but it is thought to be related to the loss of heat, water, or both from the lungs during exercise. This can lead to airway inflammation and the subsequent symptoms of asthma.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of exercise-induced asthma involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. A doctor may also perform a spirometry test to measure lung function and an exercise challenge test to assess how exercise affects the patient's lung function.

Treatment

Treatment for exercise-induced asthma includes both preventive measures and medications. Preventive measures include warming up before exercise, wearing a mask or scarf over the mouth in cold weather, and avoiding exercise during high pollen counts or when air pollution levels are high. Medications used to treat EIB include short-acting beta agonists (SABAs), inhaled corticosteroids, and leukotriene modifiers.

See also

• Asthma
• Bronchoconstriction
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing