Benefits of Sports for Asthma Sufferers

It is possible to take part in sports without triggering your asthma symptoms. But you’ll need to take your controller medication daily, as prescribed, and—most importantly—continue to take it, even if you don’t have any more symptoms. By continuing the treatment, you will be able to keep the disease under control even while you’re physically active.

If your asthma is controlled properly, you shouldn’t need to systematically take a dose of quick-relief medication before your workout.

If you experience symptoms and need to use your quick-relief medication on a regular basis when you do sports, you should talk to your pharmacist. He or she can start by checking whether you are using your inhalers correctly and that you are following your treatment properly. If need be, your pharmacist can also recommend making changes to your treatment.

Aside from a few rare exceptions, asthmatics can partake in any sport. It’s simply a matter of tailoring your training to your fitness level and taking a few precautions:

• Be sure to do a warm-up and cool-down before and after your workout.
• Avoid exercising outside in very hot, humid weather, and when pollen counts are high, if you suffer from pollen allergies.
• Wear a scarf over your nose and mouth when exercising in cold weather.
• Always keep your quick-relief medication handy.

If you have concerns, please discuss them with your pharmacist.