Exercise Induced Bronchoconstriction – What You Should Know

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a condition that can occur when you exercise, especially if you have asthma. EIB happens when the airways in your lungs narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms of EIB include shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.

EIB is often triggered by cold air or air pollution. It can also be triggered by other factors, such as allergies, infections, or certain medications.

If you have EIB, you may need to take steps to prevent or manage your symptoms. Some people with EIB use inhaled bronchodilators before they exercise. This helps to open the airways and makes it easier to breathe.

If you have EIB, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help you create a plan to manage your symptoms and keep you safe while you exercise.

 

How To Prevent Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction

There are a few things that you can do to prevent EIB:

1. Warm up before you exercise. A good warm-up will gradually increase your heart rate and breathing, which will help to prevent EIB.

2. Dress for the weather. In cold weather, dress in layers so that you can stay warm without overheating. In warm weather, wear loose-fitting clothing and stay hydrated.

3. Avoid exercising outdoors when the air is polluted or cold. If possible, exercise indoors on days when the air quality is poor or the temperature is cold.

4. Use an inhaler before you exercise. If you have asthma, your doctor may prescribe a bronchodilator inhaler. Be sure to use it as directed before you start exercising.

5. Talk to your doctor about allergies. If you have allergies, your doctor may recommend allergy shots or other treatments to help prevent EIB.

If you have EIB, it is important to talk to your doctor about how to best manage your symptoms. With proper treatment, you can exercise safely and enjoy all the benefits that come with being active.

 

How Long Does Exercise-induced Bronchoconstriction Last

EIB usually goes away on its own within 30 minutes after you stop exercising. In some cases, symptoms may last for a few hours. If you have severe EIB, your symptoms may last for days.

 

What Does EIB Feel Like?

If you have EIB, you may experience the following symptoms:

1. Shortness of breath: This is the most common symptom of EIB. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath or that you can’t get enough air.

2. Wheezing: This is a high-pitched whistling sound that can be heard when you breathe out.

3. Coughing: This may happen if your airways are particularly irritated.

4. Chest tightness: You may feel like something is squeezing or constricting your chest.

5. Fatigue: You may feel tired or run down after exercising, even if you didn’t exercise for very long.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to stop exercising and rest. Symptoms should start to improve within 30 minutes. If they do not, call your doctor.

 

What Are The Complications Of Exercise-induced Bronchoconstriction?

EIB can cause a number of complications, including:

1. Asthma attacks: EIB can trigger an asthma attack, which is a sudden worsening of asthma symptoms. Asthma attacks can be very serious and even life-threatening.

2. Hospitalization: In some cases, EIB may require hospitalization. This is more likely to happen if you have severe EIB or if you also have other medical conditions, such as heart disease or COPD.

3. Death: While it is rare, EIB can cause death in some cases. This is more likely to happen if you have severe EIB or if you also have other medical conditions, such as heart disease or COPD.

If you have EIB, it is important to talk to your doctor about how to best manage your symptoms.