Exercise-Induced Asthma

If you feel breathless after just a few minutes of exercise, you may have a condition known as exercise-induced asthma. At Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies, pulmonary function tests and other diagnostics are available to assess your lung health. Robert McDermott, MD, Amy Johnson, PA-C, and the team create a care plan focused on breathing techniques, lifestyle modifications, and medicines to protect your respiratory health and keep you active. Call the Basalt or Glenwood Springs, Colorado, office today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of exercise-induced asthma. You can also book an appointment online.

What is exercise-induced asthma?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes sudden airway inflammation, which makes it difficult to move oxygen in and out of your body. The lungs also produce excess mucus that further complicates breathing.

Exercise-induced asthma, or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), is a temporary condition that causes asthma-like symptoms after vigorous exercise. You can experience EIB symptoms even if you don’t have an asthma diagnosis.

Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of exercise-induced asthma in children and adults.

Dr. McDermott and the team offer on-site tests, including pulmonary function tests to diagnose EIB and rule out other conditions. They customize a care plan to reduce the frequency and severity of exercise-induced asthma symptoms, so you can stay active.

When should I seek medical attention for exercise-induced asthma?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies if you experience unusual, asthma-like symptoms during a workout or other strenuous activity. These symptoms include:

• Cough
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath

These respiratory issues can also trigger anxiousness or fear, which can exacerbate respiratory distress.

Symptoms of exercise-induced asthma typically appear within 15 minutes of vigorous activity and may go away after a period of rest. You might also experience feelings of breathlessness when going to sleep due to a late onset of EIB symptoms.

During your evaluation, Dr. McDermott assesses your nasal passages and airway to check for polyps or other blockages. He may also request a chest X-ray or lung function tests to assess how much air can move in and out of your lungs.

How is exercise-induced asthma treated?

Your treatment plan for exercise-induced asthma may include antihistamines and short-acting medications like inhaled corticosteroids that relax your airways and quickly reduce inflammation.

Long-acting medications like leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA) and mast cell stabilizing agents (MCSA) are available to prevent exercise-induced asthma flare-ups.

Dr. McDermott and the team recommend strategies you can use to relieve distress and anxiety during your workouts, such as engaging in breathing exercises and other mindful practices. They might also suggest diet and lifestyle changes you can make to improve your overall health.

Call Allergy Asthma Immunology of the Rockies office in Basalt or Glenwood Springs, Colorado, today to schedule a consultation for exercise-induced asthma or book an appointment online today.