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Questions about exercise induced asthma

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Posted 1/26/2012 5:51 AM (GMT 0)
I have been debating if it would be worth it to be tested for exercise-induced asthma. Can anyone here who has it tell me what it is like? I normally try to avoid self-diagnosis but 1) asthma runs in my family, my mom has it and 2) a colleague I play soccer with told me I should get it checked out as I have problems running.

I personally have experienced breathing issues while running since I can remember though I always chalked it up to being a fat kid in elementary, and then to being unfit. It seems to be specifically running that causes me breathing problems. They are worse in cold or very humid weather so I often exercise indoors. I like sports, but find that I am often short of breath before my legs really get tired. Training on a treadmill has helped but not fixed the problem completely. Symptoms are basically a burning feeling in my lungs and some tightness where I can't seem to get the air in fast enough. I do not usually experience coughing or wheezing. I also have allergies and a decent amount of mucus from that.

So, from those that have the condition, does this sound like you at all? Would it be worth it to see a doctor, or do you think it is probably being out of shape or breathing technique? If I see a doctor, what kind should it be?
Posted 1/26/2012 12:16 PM (GMT 0)
It does sound like perhaps a mild form of EIA. Coughing and wheezing doesn't always accompany asthma and there are varying degrees of severity. It wouldn't hurt to get checked out. Most times a family doctor can advise you but if you want to go full bore, you can see a pulmonologist for proper testing.
Posted 1/26/2012 1:00 PM (GMT 0)
In my case, unless it's really bad, I just lack stamina and find myself having to reduce weights and/or cut the workout short. My heart rate will go up faster and come down slower, and I'll be winded earlier and longer. During allergy seasons I usually hit my rescue inhaler about a half hour before I go to the gym.
Posted 1/26/2012 3:39 PM (GMT 0)
malkavian, if you are unfit for the exercise you are trying to do, then yes, you are going to be short of breath.

I know cold weather can trigger asthma in many people; I haven't heard the same for humid weather. What makes humid days challenging for exercise is that our bodies cannot cool as effectively so we are not going to feel as "fit" as we do on days where sweat works to cool the blood.

If you'd like to play soccer without getting short of breath, I suggest a basic fitness program to improve your cardiovascular fitness, like couch-to-5K.
Posted 1/27/2012 5:16 AM (GMT 0)
I've had asthma since I was 3.
I do have problems with my asthma when I exercise.
I always use my Albuterol MID or nebulizer about 15 minutes before I exercise. I am usually fine.
If the exercise is really hard, I do have to stop briefly, to use my MDI. Then I can finish my workout.

kazbern has told you that cold air is an asthma trigger. Living in the south, I can tell you humid air is just as bad.

Do you currently use any medication for your breathing problems? Do you have an Albuterol inhaler?
Posted 1/28/2012 12:32 AM (GMT 0)
I'm having similar issues. I figure that being tired and out of breath is due to being unfit. But, when running, I get massive ear pain, which then spreads to my jaw and head. Also, my nose starts to run and I get mucous in my throat. And then I feel off-balance after I stop (like if someone were to tap me, I'd fall over). Do I need to see a doctor?
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