Asthma and Exercise (Part 3).

Is there a link between Asthma and Exercise? This is part 3 of a 3 part series about Asthma. Click this link for Part 1 or Part 2

Can Exercise induce Asthma?

To help us keep healthy we should exercise and eat a healthy diet. Everyone needs to exercise¹ but what if we are worried about exercising because we have asthma? If your asthma is well managed you should be able to enjoy keeping active and not worry.²

So When should we worry?

As we all know getting short of breath during exercise can happen to anyone.

When we exercise, we get to know what is normal for us, such as feeling hot, working up a sweat, feeling flushed and breathing faster. It’s when these symptoms are no longer normal,  we need to seek advice from our doctor. Some of the symptoms to be aware of during exercise are wheezing, tightness in the chest, coughing, gasping for breath.

Be aware of the signs of an asthma attack and the urgency of getting immediate help. Such as:

• Breathing getting faster and shows no sign of slowing down.
• Unable to speak due to breathlessness.
• Your reliever inhaler isn’t helping.
• Your symptoms are getting worse such tightness of the chest, shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. ³

Simple safety precautions

It is very important to be familiar with your asthma action plan, take your asthma medication as prescribed,  inhaler/s and any oral medication,  and keep up to date with your regular reviews.³

Remember if your asthma isn’t well controlled make an appointment to see your GP or Practice Nurse. If you are having an asthma attack seek medical help IMMEDIATELY.

Keep Safe, Keep Well, Be Asthma Aware.

1 Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America 1995-2020

2 Asthma UK 2018

3 Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Partnership 2020

Wendy Attew, Senior Moving and Handling Consultant