Four Asthma Symptoms When Exercising
December 9th, 2009 Posted by: Esther Tan
Asthma is a very unpredictable and delicate condition. Flare-ups can manifest quickly and sometimes without warning that asthmatics are often caught off guard. For those who enjoy working out or participating in physical activities asthma can be a very limiting and frustrating condition to have. Of course we all know the benefits that exercise can give to us, we all need it, asthmatic or not.
For asthmatics the need to exercise is greatly emphasized as it can promote general well being as well as strengthen immunity to the allergens that one might encounter. The problem is that even with the possible benefits that asthmatics can get from exercise it can also cause flare-ups and attacks. Exercise induced asthma is one of the reasons why a lot of asthmatics avoid physical activities which would otherwise be beneficial for them.
There are ways that asthmatics can still do your workouts without having to worry about your asthma. Having the knowledge of various symptoms and being proactive enough when your run to these symptoms, it is possible to prevent them from becoming a full blown asthma attack. Here are some of the exercise induced asthma symptoms that you should be aware of:
Sharp pain in the chest followed by a numbing feeling to various parts of the body: This is probably at the top of all the exercise induced asthma symptoms. If anytime during your workout you feel this sensation, stop immediately and take your medication. It would probably be good idea to schedule your work out or activity on another day as this symptom can be quickly followed by a severe asthma attack if not given proper attention.
Lightheadedness: This tells you that your body cannot keep up with the activities that you are currently doing. Tone down your regimen a little or pause for a few minute breaks in between to rest. To be on the safe side, keep your medications close, and take them if you see fit.
Persistent coughing: Coughing during workout can only mean one thing for asthmatics - lack of air due to the gradual constriction of the airways. This is caused when foreign substances get in contact with the lungs, or too much exertion of force that your body can’t keep up with. Remember to pace yourself and don’t push your body to its limits. Your asthma can bring your participation in such activities to a stop.
Wheezing: Wheezing is probably the most common of all asthma symptoms; exercise induced or not. When you start letting of whistling sounds while exercising, stop immediately and observe your condition. Depending on how you know your asthma, take a puff from your inhaler. It would be safe to continue your workout once the wheezing stops.
Monitor your body closely during exercising so as to avoid unwelcome asthma attacks. Do not push your body to the limits, as the next bed you may be sleeping in would be a hospital bed.
