The treatment for exercise-induced asthma varies with the personal desires of each patient. Many patients are sedentary, while others engage in competitive sports that may be physically demanding. Therefore, treatment must be individualized. Some patients with mild asthma may be using four (4) different medications before engaging in sports. The recommendations are listed below.
All patients should warm up before engaging in strenuous exercise. 10 - 15 minutes of low level exertion, particularly stretching, is recommended. Specific medications can be prescribed that will further alleviate symptoms. The basic medications are as listed:
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Proventil, Ventolin, MaxAir, Brethair: Use 2 - 4 puffs 15 - 20 minutes before exercise. In some patients, the oral (syrup) form of Proventil may be most beneficial, utilizing 1 - 2 teaspoons one hour prior to exercise |
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Atrovent: Add 2 - 4 puffs in conjunction with any of the above listed medications |
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Intal: Use in the same manner as Atrovent |
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Antihistamines: Take approximately one hour prior to exercise. The beneficial effects are not believed to be solely due to blocking an allergic reaction, and may therefore possibly benefit even non-allergic asthmatics. |
As mentioned, treatment is tailored to a patient's needs. Olympic athletes typically warm up carefully, and take many of the above listed medications for optimal performance. For most people such regimens are not usually necessary. In order to tailor a medical program to fit our special needs, it is necessary to discuss your personal exercise requirements with your physician. Also, probably the most important aspect in reducing exertional induced asthma is to ensure that your asthma is appropriately treated at all times, even when not exercising.
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