Asthma and exercise: tips for managing asthma symptoms during physical activity

Asthma can make physical activity a challenge. However, with proper management, people with asthma can lead active and healthy lives. Here are some tips for managing asthma symptoms during exercise:

1. Use your inhaler before exercise: If you have a prescribed inhaler, make sure to use it before starting physical activity (subject to instruction from your doctor). This can help to prevent asthma symptoms from occurring during exercise.
2. Warm up slowly: Gradually increasing your heart rate and breathing rate through a slow warm-up can help to reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms.
3. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is important for everyone, but it is especially important for people with asthma. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise to help keep your airways moist and reduce the risk of asthma symptoms.
4. Wear a scarf or mask: Cold air can be a trigger for asthma symptoms, especially during exercise. Wearing a scarf or mask over your nose and mouth can help to warm the air you breathe and reduce the risk of asthma symptoms.
5. Choose an indoor location: If possible, choose an indoor location for your physical activity. Indoor air is generally less cold and dry, which can help to reduce the risk of asthma symptoms.
6. Choose an appropriate activity: Some activities may be more suitable for people with asthma than others. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling may be less likely to trigger asthma symptoms than high-impact activities like running or basketball, however good asthma control can allow you to play whatever you like!
7. Know your triggers: Identifying your personal asthma triggers can be a key part of managing your condition. Common triggers include cold air, tobacco smoke, pollution, and when mixed with certain types of physical activity can create a ‘perfect storm’ of triggers. By avoiding or minimizing your exposure to these triggers, you can help to reduce the risk of asthma symptoms.
8. Create an asthma action plan: An asthma action plan is a personalized plan that outlines the steps you should take to manage your asthma symptoms. This may include using prescribed medications, avoiding known triggers, and seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen. Working with your healthcare provider to create an action plan can help you to better control your asthma and stay active.
9. Stay up-to-date with your medical care: Regular medical check-ups and maintaining good communication with your healthcare provider are important for managing asthma. Make sure to keep your inhalers and other medications up-to-date and attend regular check-ups to stay on top of your condition.
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By following these tips, you can help to manage your asthma symptoms and continue to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Remember to always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.

Exercise an important part of a healthy lifestyle for people with asthma. With proper management, people with asthma can stay active and enjoy the many benefits of physical activity. By using your inhaler before exercise, warming up slowly, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers, you can help to reduce the risk of asthma symptoms during physical activity. It is also important to know your triggers, create an asthma action plan, and stay up-to-date with your medical care in order to effectively manage your condition.