Exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB), also known as exercise-induced asthma, is a medical condition characterized by the narrowing and constriction of the airways in the lungs during or after physical exertion. It occurs predominantly in individuals with pre-existing asthma or a history of bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
During exercise, increased ventilation and breathing rate cause the airways to become dry and lose heat, triggering the release of chemical substances that constrict the smooth muscles of the bronchi. This constriction results in symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and overall difficulty in breathing. The severity of EIB symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and it typically peaks within 10-15 minutes of exercise but may persist for a variable duration afterward.
The exact cause of exercise-induced bronchospasm is not completely understood, but it is believed to be a combination of factors including the inhalation of dry or cold air, the release of certain substances (like histamines and leukotrienes) during exercise, and the hyperresponsiveness of the bronchial smooth muscles in susceptible individuals.
Managing exercise-induced bronchospasm involves both short-term relief and long-term control. Short-acting bronchodilators, such as inhalers containing beta-agonists, are commonly used before exercise to prevent or alleviate symptoms. Regular use of long-acting bronchodilators or anti-inflammatory agents may also be recommended to control the underlying airway inflammation and reduce the likelihood of EIB occurrence. Additionally, appropriate warm-up and cooling-down exercises, along with wearing a mask or scarf to warm and humidify inhaled air, can help minimize EIB symptoms during physical activity.
