People of all ages experience asthma. Although it may not affect your daily life considerably, this chronic condition becomes noticeable when exercising. To ensure you stay safe while engaging in activities such as jogging and weight training, here’s some advice to follow along with your doctors’ recommendations.

How Exercise Is Helpful for Asthma

Exercise can help you stay fit, but it’s often difficult for people with asthma to work out safely. However, with the help of your doctor and a gradual increase in activity, exercise can improve the airflow in your lungs. Not only does exercise decrease the risk of heart disease, maintain weight, and improve mental health, but it also strengthens respiratory muscles. 

Stick to low-impact workouts like cardio, biking, hiking, and walking. Stay away from endurance sports, like soccer or basketball, to avoid long stretches of running without adequate rest. 

Safety Tips for Exercising

Even if you have asthma,  you can still exercise. Taking your doctor recommended asthma medications and keeping an eye on your symptoms can ensure your safety while performing cardio. If a specific workout causes symptoms, don’t continue and avoid performing that activity in the future.

Before starting a workout program, consult your doctor. Describe what you will be doing and for how long so they can create an action plan in case of an asthma flare-up. Use pre-exercise asthma medicine, like cromolyn or bronchodilators, to keep your lungs open. Warm up by doing light stretches and work out indoors if possible to reduce inhaling pollen, air pollution, or cold air. Restrict all workouts if you have a cold.

If at any point during the exercise you experience wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, stop immediately and don’t attempt to work through it. Follow your doctor recommended action plan and use your rescue inhaler. If symptoms don’t improve, call an ambulance.

Are you looking for an experienced doctor that can create an exercise action plan to avoid asthma symptoms? Island Hospital in Anacortes, WA, has been serving patients throughout Skagit County since 1962 with board-certified doctors, pediatricians, and over 190 skilled providers. Their staff includes an emergency department, birth center, diagnostic imaging, and a cancer care center. Call (360) 299-1300 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information on their departments.