Asthma And Exercise - Are They A Deadly Combination?
Posted at 2:06 AM
There is a misconception that asthma and exercise are incompatible. It is of tremendous benefit to all of us that we participate in regular aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise is where we use a lot of oxygen; it makes us breathe heavily during the exercise and keeps our lungs working and hearts pumping.Asthma sufferers, however, tend to be nervous that the exercise will harm them and bring on an attack. This belief regarding asthma and exercise can be so strong that they refrain from exercise completely. In fact, it is to their advantage to exercise and get fit. It is a proven fact that fewer asthma attacks are reported by sufferers who take regular aerobic exercise than those who do not exercise. A properly, professionally designed asthma and exercise plan, can actually reduce the number of attacks. It appears that the exercise develops and increases the capacity of the lungs, and so renders them less susceptible to asthma attacks.
Many successful athletes also suffer from asthma. Jackie-Joyner Kersee, Paula Radcliffe and cyclist Jan Ulrich are all asthmatics. Mark Spitz found that he had fewer problems with his asthma after he took up swimming. And boy, were these four athletes successful! So asthma sufferers should not think exercise beyond them. Athletes can also have asthma, and exercise has helped them immeasurably.
If you are experiencing problems while exercising, your doctor should be able to prescribe something for you. There are several drugs and medicines available to help those suffering with asthma and exercise is possible without many side effects. However, you should inform your doctor of any asthma and exercise plan you intend to adopt, though exercise will ultimately result in a lower intensity of attack, and a lower number of them.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, exercise can help both the physical and emotional well-being of asthma sufferers. Not all exercises promote an asthma attack, and it is advisable, and could be beneficial, to consult a specialist in respiratory allergies and conditions prior to embarking on a long-term exercise program. Such an asthma and exercise program, however, could provide short and long-term benefits to asthma sufferers.
Here are a couple of tips to follow when exercising:
Avoid exercising when pollen counts are high.
Avoid exercising in windy conditions and cold weather.
Avoid exercising if you have a cold or flu.
Avoid exercising if you feel generally unwell or weak.
Always have your inhaler to hand when exercising.
Always keep in mind the potential hazards that asthma and exercise can create.
Always keep in mind the benefits that exercise can ultimately bring you.
Otherwise, carry on, unless you feel inside yourself that all is not well. It is not a definable feeling, but you will know when you should stop. In such a situation, NEVER CONTINUE just because you have to complete the exercise or number of repetitions. You know you have asthma and exercise will not always be suitable for your condition, but when you are able, it is of great potential benefit.
If you require more information regarding asthma and exercise, consult the online Medem Medical Library.
"If you suffer from asthma, it need not control your lifestyle. You can benefit from exercise the same as anyone else, and it can help you to control your symptoms, increase your level of general activity and give you new purpose and confidence in life. Asthma and exercise need not be a deadly combination!"
Neil Walker has discovered how to Live, Feel, Breathe and Sleep 150% Better by Breaking Free From Asthma. A ten year asthma sufferer myself, I will show you how I cured it in only 5 days and threw away ALL of my medications, over-the-counter products and useless devices for good. Click here and cure your asthma in 5 days.
At last, the truth will be exposed so that YOU can Cure Your Asthma Condition Naturally - from the privacy and comfort of your own home.