7 Healthcast
Exercise-induced asthma
If you feel out of breath, cough or wheeze during or after exercise, you may have exercise-induced asthma. Frances Rivera shows how one athlete is keeping her asthma in check on and off the court.
High school athlete Alyssa doesn't have any down time. She plays three sports : volleyball, basketball and softball.
Alyssa Query, has exercise induced asthma
"I've always loved sports, I've played them since I was little. I grew up with it, too, so I'm just a very competitive person!"
But an unwanted opponent is wreaking havoc on Alyssa's sports routine.
Alyssa Query, has exercise induced asthma
"I knew I couldn't breathe, but I kept running anyway and that's when all of a sudden, I was like, 'Mom, I can't breathe,' and I started wheezing."
Alyssa was told she had exercise-induced asthma.
Doctors say this occurs when the main air passages of the lungs become inflamed.
Dr. David Wallace, pediatrician
"Normally when you breathe, the nasal passage is kind of warm and moist in the air and when you exercise, especially in cool environments or changes in humidity, it can trigger asthma."
Alyssa didn't have to give up the game, she just has to keep a close eye on her breathing and has to slow down when she's pushing herself too hard.
Alyssa Query, has exercise induced asthma
"When I can feel my chest closing in or something that makes me stop what I'm doing - because it can get worse ... or if I feel it, take my inhaler."
And a new tool helps her stay on top of it too, a spirometer can monitor her air exchange.
Typically, signs and symptoms of exercise-induced asthma start after 5 to 15 minutes of exercise. so doctors say to be mindful of that.
Dr. David Wallace, pediatrician
"Short of breath and have decreased air exchange during exercise, which can cause some respiratory difficulties."
Doctors say pre-treating the condition with an inhaler about 15 minutes before physical activity, can keep you moving without the asthma slowing you down.
Another good rule of thumb is to breathe through your nose ... And out of your mouth as much as possible while exercising to avoid an onset of asthma.
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