- Exercise-induced asthma (EIA): EIA occurs when physical activity triggers airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness during or shortly after exercise.
- Symptoms may mimic deconditioning: Many children experience breathlessness from being out of shape, but persistent, recurring symptoms merit medical evaluation for asthma.
- Timing of symptoms: Symptoms usually start 5 to 20 minutes after beginning exercise and peak shortly after stopping, and can last up to an hour or longer.
- Common triggers and sports: Cold, dry air and endurance sports (e.g., soccer, basketball, cross-country skiing) are frequent triggers; swimming and indoor chlorine exposure can also exacerbate symptoms.
- Management and prevention: Well-controlled asthma through medications (e.g., inhalers) and warm-up routines, plus avoiding extreme conditions, can help children participate safely in sports.
- Seek medical advice: If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a pediatrician for diagnosis, treatment, and an individualized asthma action plan.
Exercise Induced Asthma
Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath during exercise may be a sign of exercise-associated asthma but it may not be.
Keith Loud, MD, MSc, Pediatrics
