Exercise is one of the most common triggers for asthma. 85% of people with asthma have symptoms during or after exercise. However, this certainly does not mean that people with asthma should not exercise or play sports. In fact, exercise is highly recommended because it opens the airways, allowing more oxygen to flow into the lungs.
The type of exercise chosen is very important. The short bursts of neergy needed for baseball, football, wrestling, golfing, gymnastics, tennis or volleyball are better tolerated than prolonged exercise like running, soccer, basketball or bicycling. Swimming is one of the best exercises for people with asthma. Remember, though, that with the right control measures, you should be able to participate in ANY activity of your choosing.
Always make sure to warm up prior to exercise and cool down after exercise. Take your quick-acting inhaler 15 minutes prior to exercising and stop, rest, and relax immediately if you feel you are having difficulty breathing.
Here are some well known people who have learned to control their asthma and have gone on to win fame and fortune in their respective sports:
Kurt Grote - Olympic gold in swimming - from San Diego!
Greg Louganis - Olympic medal winner in diving
Dennis Rodman - NBA all star rebounder
Jackie Joyner Kersee - Olympic double gold medal in track
Art Monk - NFL football player
Terrell Fletcher - NFL running back - San Diego Charger
This website contains great tips for exercise buffs:
http://allergysa.org/sport.htm#
