Do your asthma attacks coincide with participation in physical activity such as exercise? Both ozone and particle pollution can make symptoms like coughing and wheezing worse for people with asthma and other lung diseases, and can lead to a trip to the doctor or hospital.
The symptoms of exertional asthma, include:
- Wheezing
- Tightness of the chest
- Coughing
- Feeling tired
- Inability to catch your breath
Some activities that can lead to heavier than normal breathing such as recreational sports including running, basketball, football, soccer, and aerobic exercise. These can lead to exertional asthma. Additionally, when the air is cold and dry, activities such as shoveling snow or walking for long periods of time can also trigger an asthma attack.
Other contributing factors of exertional asthma can include:
- Smoke or smog
- High pollen counts
- Having a cold or other respiratory infection
- Chlorinated pools or other chemical irritants
Treatment of exertional asthma includes taking medications both on a regular basis and prior to doing strenuous exercise to limit symptoms and control breathing. Some activities and sports should be avoided if they bring on asthma attacks.
During Air Quality Awareness Week (April 27-May 1), take action to reduce your pollution exposure by referring to the Air Quality Index (AQI). When you need to, adjust your outdoor activities to reduce the amount of pollution you breathe in– while still getting exercise. It’s not difficult – and your health is worth it.
If you are experience difficulty breathing while participating in strenuous activities, you should consult with a pulmonary specialist for a complete respiratory evaluation. Please contact the Ambulatory Care Center at Flushing Hospital Medical Center for an appointment at 718-670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.