A: Exercise induced asthma (EIA) is a real condition and more common than many may think. An estimated 12% to 15% of the general population is affected. Sufferers range from children to world-class athletes. Up to 90% of people who have been classified as asthmatic, experience EIA during the course of their condition.
Individuals who have not been diagnosed as asthmatic or those not having respiratory allergies still may experience EIA.
EIA is defined as a decrease in lung function and increased airway resistance upon vigorous exercise. Symptoms may include wheezing, coughing, fatigue, difficulty breathing or chest tightness during and/ or after physical activity.
Triggering factors: cold air, dry air, air pollutants, poor physical conditioning, airborne allergens (ie. pollen).
Activities such as running that require a high oxygen intake are more likely to cause EIA. Increased intensity level of an activity increases the severity of the reaction.
Treatment:
- When such a condition is identified and well-managed, results can be remarkable.
- Increase overall physical conditioning.
- Proper warm up.
- Short bursts of activity have been shown to decrease EIA.
- Exercise in a warm, humid environment.
- Wearing a face mask when conditions are cold and dry to warm and humidify air.
- Breathing through your nose rather than mouth will filter, warm, and humidify incoming air.
- Chiropractic care to ensure nerve function to areas involved is at an optimal level.
Evaluation must be specific because active individuals often have lung function well above normal predicted values when compared with sedentary individuals.
When EIA is properly managed one can reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks and allow the individual to perform at peak levels.
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