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Exercise-Induced Asthma
A medical history and physical exam are needed to diagnose exercise-induced asthma. Exercise-induced asthma symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment and how our asthma specialists can help.
Exercise-induced asthma is a respiratory problem that is related to histamine release and is triggered by aerobic exercise. It can last several minutes. Causes include medical conditions, environmental factors, and medications. A medical examination and possibly lab tests are needed to determine the exact cause.
What to expect at your visit
- 1A thorough consultationYour history, triggers, and what has and hasn't helped — with a board-certified allergist, not a questionnaire.
- 2Testing when it adds claritySkin or blood testing is scheduled after the consultation, so we can tell you exactly how to prepare.
- 3A plan you can followAvoidance, medication, or immunotherapy — explained plainly, with follow-up built in.
Frequently asked questions
Why does exercise trigger asthma?
Our breathing tends to become faster and more mouth-directed during exercise. Therefore, the air reaches the airways colder and drier. It can cause bronchospasm in asthmatics and cause coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness in people with sensitive airways.
How is exercise-induced asthma treated?
Before exercising, your healthcare provider may prescribe a "pre-treatment." A pre-treatment is an inhalation medicine you take before and after exercise to prevent asthma symptoms.
What sports are best for someone with exercise-induced asthma?
The risk of asthma symptoms is lowest for sports or activities that involve bursts of activity followed by brief rest periods. People with asthma can benefit from periods of rest to regain control over their breathing. A few sports give athletes the opportunity to take a short break, such as baseball, softball, volleyball, tennis, golf, and some track and field.
How can I avoid the triggers for exercise-induced asthma?
Exercise-induced asthma affects almost all asthmatics. Exercise requirements are different between the two based on the amount required before someone has difficulty. Someone who is quite stable might not experience any difficulty at all The exception is if you are extremely challenged. Even a very small amount of activity can cause difficulty when you have an infection with wheezing. Generally, exercise creates exercise-induced asthma. Exercise sensitivity can also be induced by other factors (infection, allergy, changes in the weather).