ASTHMA MANAGEMENT IN SPORTS

What is Asthma?
Asthma is the narrowing of the airways due to spasm and/or swelling of the airway walls, making breathing difficult, there may also be an accumulation of mucus and fluid in the airways, contributing to the narrowing of the airways.Exercise induced asthma (EIA) refers to asthma that is triggered during or shortly after exercise. EIA can vary from a mild cough, to wheezing or to severe breathing difficulties. EIA may occur during exercise, though it is more likely to occur after exercise (up to 30 minutes after exercise).During exercise, heat and water are lost from the airways and it is this change that is thought to trigger EIA.
What triggers and asthma attack?
Some common triggers include:
- Exercise, especially intensity and duration- Allergies, such as dust, pollens, grasses, lawn cuttings, cat or dog etc.- Cigarette smoke- Cold air- Certain medications and irritants, such as aspirin- Emotion, including laughter- Chest infections- Stress
Continuous activities such as running usually cause wheezing more that stop/start activities such as football and netball. Other activities where less EIA occurs include:
- Swimming- Walking- Cycling- Tennis- Soccer
Cold and/or dry air will also affect an asthmatic, therefore, it is important that precautions such as preventative medications are taken when exercising in such climates.
Being physically fit is also beneficial to the asthmatic.
How to recognise an asthma attack
There is usually a past history of asthma, and the athlete appears:
- Distressed- Anxious- Has difficulty breathing- Short of breath (

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