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OVERVIEW

What is exercise-induced bronchospasm?

Exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) happens when the airways in your lungs shrink (get smaller) while you are exercising. This makes it difficult to breathe. If you have EIB, it can be hard for you to exercise for more than 30 minutes at a time.

EIB also is called exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. It is the same thing as exercise-induced asthma.

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of EIB?

Symptoms of EIB typically start after 5 to 20 minutes of nonstop exercise. The length of time depends on how severe your condition is. Symptoms can include:

• trouble breathing
• coughing
• chest pain
• chest tightness
• wheezing (breathing that makes a hoarse, squeaky, or whistling sound)

CAUSES & RISK FACTORS

What causes EIB?

EIB is caused by activity that triggers an asthma reaction. For some people, certain types of exercise trigger symptoms. For others, breathing in air that is cooler and drier than the air in your lungs during exercise may cause EIB. If you have EIB and chronic asthma, your symptoms may get worse during spring and fall.  This is when people tend to have trouble with allergies.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

How is exercise-induced bronchospasm diagnosed?

Contact your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of EIB. The doctor will do a physical exam and review your symptoms. They likely will perform breathing tests as well. During a breathing test, your healthcare provider will have you breathe into a spirometer or a peak flow meter. These devices measure how much air you are able to blow out of your lungs. If your healthcare provider thinks you might have EIB, they will discuss your treatment options.

PREVENTION

Can exercise-induced bronchospasm be prevented or avoided?

You cannot avoid EIB. However, you can help prevent flare-ups. Avoid types of exercise or conditions that trigger symptoms. Work with your doctor to identify these.

TREATMENT

You and your healthcare provider will decide which medicine is right for you. They will give you instructions on when and how to take your medicine. It is important to follow these orders to make sure the medicine is effective.

Medicines to treat EIB include the following:

• A short-acting bronchodilator: This medicine is usually taken 15 minutes before exercise and lasts 4 to 6 hours.
• A mast cell stabilizer: This medicine is usually taken 15 minutes to 1 hour before exercise and lasts for 4 hours.
• A long acting bronchodilator: This medicine is usually taken 30 minutes before exercise and lasts up to 12 hours.
• An anti-leukotriene: This medicine lasts up to 24 hours. It is taken every day and helps keep your airways from shrinking.

Living with exercise-induced bronchospasm

Most people who have EIB still are able to exercise. However, you may have to avoid certain types of exercise. Medicine can prevent and manage most symptoms. There also are lifestyle changes you can make.

• A warm-up and cool-down period of at least 15 minutes before and after exercise may help lessen the symptoms of EIB.
• Avoid exercising in very cold temperatures.
• Avoid exercising when you are sick, like with a cold or the flu.
• Avoid exercising when your allergies are bad. For instance, when pollen levels are high If you smoke, stop.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Asthma Canada

http://www.asthma.ca