Safely exercising with asthma, important guidelines for asthmatics

Are you having asthma? Do you wish to exercise and stay healthy? Then, don’t worry! We tell you how to exercise when you have asthma. Read on to know more about this, and ensure to improve your quality of life. After all, it will be imperative for you to take utmost care when you have this fatal respiratory condition. So, here are some vital things that you should follow without fail.

Asthma can be described as a severe condition that takes a toll on the airways in the lungs. It leads to swelling and inflammation of the airways. Thus, one will have symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. This can make it tough for one to breathe. You will be shocked to know that aerobic exercise is one of the reasons behind the trigger or worsening asthma-related symptoms, and this is called exercise-induced asthma. But, the fact can’t be denied that exercise can improve lung health. Remember to consult the doctor before undertaking any fitness program.

How exercising is beneficial for asthma patients?

Exercising can reduce or prevent asthma symptoms. Exercising can improve airway and lung function as one’s endurance increases. It reduces inflammation of the airways, strengthens the muscles, and helps with cardiovascular fitness too.

Types of exercise suitable for asthma patients: One should exercise under the guidance of a fitness trainer and do moderate-intensity activities. One can opt for swimming, walking, gymming, and breathing exercises such as nasal breathing, and diaphragmatic breathing. But, do not over-exert at all. Exercise at least 5 days a week for half-an-hour and you can slowly increase the exercise time. It is the need of the hour to take enough precautions for asthma patients to ensure safety while exercising.

These are some of the essential tips for asthma patients to exercise with caution

Don’t forget to take medication on time: It is possible for asthma patients to exercise and improve their quality of life. If a pre-exercise inhaler fails to control your symptoms, the doctor will prescribe another medication such as oral drugs or additional inhalers that decrease airway inflammation and help you to breathe freely.

Keep the inhaler handy before exercising: Your doctor will suggest a rescue inhaler as a pre-exercise treatment that cannot be skipped. These inhaled medications will allow the relaxing of the airways to make sure you breathe properly during physical activity.

Try to warm up and cool down after exercising: Doing this can help your airways to adjust and you won’t have any problem. You will have to warm up and cool down whenever you exercise and that should be a norm.

Do not exercise in cold weather: Cover your nose and mouth with the help of a scarf when it’s cold outside if not exercising. Cold weather can give a tough time to the lungs.

Stay away from sports with continuous activity: Basketball, football, and long-distance running can impact the lungs if your asthma is not managed properly.

This article on 'Things Asthmatics To Take Care While Exercising' is by Dr Sanggita Checker, Consultant Chest Physician, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road

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