Asthma is such a common condition
that I think most of know someone or know of someone who suffers from this
awful condition. I remember one lad back from my high school days that used to
have asthma attacks during physical education. I often used to wonder why they
had him exercise if it was only going to make him suffer. I've since found out
that contrary to popular belief, a careful exercise plan is actually recognized
as a beneficial part of any asthma treatment plan. Let me explain.
Asthma and exercise actually have a
unique relationship but it's very important to understand this relationship and
how the two relate. It's true, asthma and exercise don't always go cap in hand
which is why it is crucial to understand why it is that physical activity can bring
on an attack. Whenever we physically exert ourselves, we increase our body's
need for more oxygen and consequently this makes our breathing considerably
harder and faster. We've all overexerted ourselves at one time or another and
therefore know those awful feelings of breathlessness, tightening of the chest,
and in some cases, heavy panting. All of these are symptoms of a typical asthma
attack.
After reading the above you may still
be wondering what possible benefits there are for the asthma sufferer to
exercise at all. Well, it's a known fact that the asthma sufferer who exercises
frequently actually reports having fewer attacks than when they did not
exercise. The reason for this is simple. Physical exercise improves overall
physical health and whenever we're in good physical shape, out body's cope much
better with any complaints and illnesses that challenge us, including asthma.
This doesn't mean that the asthma
sufferer should fly out the door after reading this and attempt a 4 minute
mile, as asthma and exercise require the correct planning. Remember, we're all
different so it's unwise to generalize here. Any asthma sufferer that wants to
include regular exercise into their treatment plan should first consult their
doctor about the various types of exercise. Also, and this is very important,
before embarking on any new exercise regime, an asthma sufferer should be
certain that they are already managing their asthma in the correct way on a
daily basis.
It probably goes without saying but
it's crucial that when getting into an asthma and exercise program of action
that the sufferer has the appropriate medical equipment at hand at all times,
including their inhalers. It's a good idea to have a simply check list so that
you are certain to pack what you need prior to your workout.
It's always a good idea to be mindful
of how you are feeling during the workout and it's also important to stop the
moment you feel any symptoms coming on. Taking care or yourself is paramount
when doing any asthma and exercise fitness plan, and an understanding how
'your' asthma and exercise work together is a must.
Remember, fit and healthy sufferers
of asthma have less attacks generally than those that do little or no regular
exercise, but as mentioned earlier, consult your doctor first so that you can
work out a plan specifically for you.
References
Andy
Maingam Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/290087
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