Exercise Induced Asthma - Symptoms Causes

Overview

Exercise-induced asthma happens when airways narrow during intense physical activity. This condition, also known as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, causes breathing difficulties, wheezing, and coughing during or after exercise.

People with asthma commonly experience this condition, but it can also affect individuals without asthma. Most people can stay active with proper treatment and preventive measures.

With proper management, people can continue enjoying physical activities while minimizing symptoms.

Signs to Look For

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction often shows up during or right after physical activity. Without treatment, these symptoms might last an hour or more.

Common symptoms include:

Coughing
Wheezing sounds when breathing
Trouble catching your breath
Tightness or pain in the chest
Feeling tired while exercising
Not performing as well as expected
Avoiding physical activities (especially in children)

When to see a doctor

If you notice symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath during exercise, visit your healthcare provider. These signs could indicate exercise-induced bronchoconstriction or another condition, so getting an accurate diagnosis is important.

Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:

Rapidly worsening shortness of breath or wheezing
Breathing difficulties that make it hard to speak
No relief after using a prescribed asthma inhaler

Early diagnosis helps ensure you receive proper treatment and can continue staying active safely.

Causes

The exact cause of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction remains somewhat unclear. Scientists previously thought cold air was the main trigger, but newer research points to dry air as the more likely cause.

When a person breathes in dry air, it pulls moisture from the airways. This dehydration effect causes the air passages to narrow, which restricts airflow and makes breathing difficult.

Several environmental factors can worsen symptoms:

Dry air (regardless of temperature)
Cold environments
Chlorine (found in swimming pools)
Chemical fumes or pollutants
Airborne irritants

The airways become more sensitive to these triggers during physical activity, as breathing rates increase significantly.

Risk Factors

Certain groups face higher chances of developing exercise-induced bronchoconstriction:

People with asthma (affects about 90% of asthma patients)
Elite athletes (more common than in the general population)

Several environmental factors can trigger or worsen symptoms:

Dry or cold air
Air pollution
Chlorine in swimming pools
Indoor fumes (perfume, paint, new equipment, carpet)

Activities that involve extended periods of deep breathing put people at greater risk, including:

Long-distance running
Swimming
Soccer

These factors don’t guarantee someone will develop the condition, but they increase the likelihood or may worsen symptoms in those already affected.

Complications

Without proper treatment, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction can lead to severe health issues. People with poorly managed asthma may face dangerous or even life-threatening breathing problems.

The condition can also reduce quality of life by making it difficult to participate in physical activities. Many individuals avoid exercise altogether, which can impact their overall health and wellness.