Adult Asthma: Exercise
Living with asthma does not mean living without physical activity. The
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology suggests asthma patients participate in activities that are less likely to trigger asthma
symptoms such as:
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Walking
- Downhill skiing
- Leisure biking
- Sports that require short bursts of energy, including but not limited to golfing, baseball, surfing and football
It is important to consult with your physician before beginning any exercise routine, as your doctor may suggest you avoid certain
activities.
The
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute provides these
tips to control asthma symptoms during exercise:
- Always use your pre-exercise inhaled medicines before exercising.
- Warm up before exercising and maintain an appropriate cool-down period after.
- Avoid exercising outdoors when pollen counts are high (if you have allergies), and when there is high levels of air pollution.
- If the weather is cold, exercise indoors or cover your nose and mouth with a mask or scarf.
- Restrict exercise when you have a viral infection.
- Exercise at an intensity that is appropriate and comfortable for you.
