Exercise Induced Asthma

Exercise induced bronchoconstriction (or exercise induced asthma) is characterised by inflammation and constriction of airways during physical activity. This condition is generally triggered when exercising in cool, dry air or for extended periods of deep breathing which results in narrowing of the airway. This condition affects around 10% of the population with a presence even in athletes. When exercise induced bronchoconstriction is well managed, those with the condition are able to comfortably engage in physical activity.

Signs and symptoms

Exercise induced bronchoconstriction can be difficult to diagnose due to the shortness of breath and fatigue associated with physical activity. However, when these symptoms are presented in excess for the physical activity that is being undertaken, or multiple symptoms arise, it is important to seek help from a doctor. The symptoms of exercise induced bronchoconstriction are usually presented soon after the commencement of exercise and peak around 5-10 minutes after exercise has stopped. However, these symptoms can persist for up to an hour after the completion of exercise. These signs and symptoms include:

Coughing
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness or pain
Wheezing
Excess fatigue during exercise
Poorer than expected performance
Avoidance of physical activity

Can I participate in exercise with exercise induced bronchoconstriction?

Those with exercise induced bronchoconstriction are still able to comfortably engage in an exercise program when triggers and risk factors are well managed. It is important to seek advice from a health professional such as an exercise physiologist who can assist with the appropriate strategies. Exercise is also a great way to improve the quality of life and lifestyle habits of those with exercise induced bronchoconstriction.

What exercise should I engage in?

Warming up before increasing the intensity of physical activity is essential for those with this condition as it can help prevent symptoms. The environment and type of exercise are also important to consider. Remember, try to avoid cool, dry environments and exercising for long durations!

Swimming in a warm environment is recommended for those with this condition as individuals often see decreased symptoms and as a result are able to engage in moderate or even high intensities with limited side effects. Other activities such as walking, cycling and resistance programs in warm environments are also great for those with exercise induced bronchoconstriction. With appropriate prescription and monitoring, those with exercise induced bronchoconstriction are able to live active, healthy lives.

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction differs from asthma. While both conditions are characterised by a narrowing of airways resulting in breathing difficulties; exercise-induced asthma only occurs during the participation of exercise whereas asthma affects those outside of exercise environments. Of those with asthma, up to 90% also have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction can be one of the first signs of asthma. Exercise may present abnormal breathing difficulties which may develop into breathing difficulties during everyday activities demonstrated in asthma.

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How can Bites Dietitians help?

Did you know that up to 50% of athletes have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction? When risk factors are well managed, those with exercise induced bronchoconstriction can safely engage in exercise. Our Bites Exercise Physiologists assist by assessing your condition and helping to identify individual risk factors. We then create an exercise program specifically curated to you. This includes teaching you how to sufficiently warm up before engaging in exercise, starting with low intensity exercise, and gradually building up exercise tolerance. Overall, we aim to create individualised programs to help you safely manage your condition while engaging in sports, work, and activities of daily living.

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Helpful things to bring/remember before your first appointment

Referral from GP or specialist (if you have)
Any medications or treatments being undertaken
Any medical history documents that may assist us

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305/29–31 Lexington Drive, Bella Vista NSW 2153

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0452 458 146

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Exercise Induced Asthma