If you're an athlete with asthma, you might sometimes feel like you're at a disadvantage compared to others. The breathlessness, the constant need for medication, and the fear of triggering an attack can be daunting. But with the right approach, asthma doesn't have to hold you back. Many top athletes have proven that asthma can be managed effectively, allowing them to perform at their peak. In this article, we reached out to experts who shared asthma management tips and treatment for athletes.
Asthma In Asthmatic Patients
Dr Sandeep Nayar, Principal Director and HOD, Centre for Chest and Respiratory Diseases, BLK-MAX Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, said, “It's crucial to emphasise that, with the correct medication and inhalation therapy, asthma is readily managed and does not pose a substantial hurdle.”
According to a 2024 study, In elite athletes, the prevalence of respiratory conditions is significantly higher, ranging from 20-70% depending on the sport.
Asthma does not prevent individuals from maintaining a normal routine or even excelling beyond others. Dr Nayar stresses that consistent medication use is essential for managing asthma effectively, even if symptoms seem to subside.
Dr Nayar cites the example of Noah Lyles, an Olympic gold medalist, who has managed his asthma since childhood and achieved incredible success in the 100-metre sprint. He added, “At the age of five, he couldn’t even eat without coughing and relied on a nebuliser to manage his symptoms. Despite these challenges, he won an Olympic gold medal in one of the most demanding events.”
“Therefore, I urge everyone involved in sports organisations to support talented individuals, even if they have asthma. Rather than discouraging them from participating in sports, encourage them to manage their condition with proper medication. With consistent treatment, they can excel at the highest levels,” added Dr Nayar.
Also Read: Heat And Humidity Can Worsen Asthma: Expert Lists 6 Steps To Prevent Flare-Ups In Extreme Heat
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Proven Tips for Asthmatic Athletes
Dr Piyush Goel, Consultant, Pulmonology, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, offers the following tips for asthmatic athletes to optimise their performance:
- Avoid Known Triggers: Identify and avoid asthma triggers like pollen, dust, and other allergens that can provoke an asthma attack.
- Adhere to Prescribed Medications: Take your regularly prescribed medications as directed by your pulmonologist.
- Pretreat Before Exercise: Use inhalers as advised by your doctor before engaging in physical activities to prevent asthma symptoms.
- Warm-Up Properly: Spend 15-20 minutes warming up before exercise to reduce the risk of airway constriction during physical activity.
- Protect Yourself in Cold Weather: Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf when exercising outdoors in cold temperatures.
- Monitor Air Quality: Limit outdoor exercise when air quality is unhealthy (orange) and avoid outdoor activities when air quality reaches red, purple, or maroon levels.
- Cool Down After Exercise: Always include a cool-down period after strenuous activities.
Adherence to Treatment: The Key to Performance
Dr Manisha Mendiratta, Associate Director and Head, Pulmonology, Sarvodaya Hospital, Faridabad, underscores the importance of regular treatment and care:
Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions among athletes, and it can significantly reduce efficiency due to breathlessness during physical exertion. However, if diagnosed and managed correctly, patients can continue their day-to-day activities and exercise without difficulty.
“Inhalers and nebulised medications are the treatment of choice for asthma patients. Regular use of these medications can help maintain lung function and prevent further lung damage. Additionally, asthmatics can improve their lung volumes through consistent breathing exercises,” said Dr Mendiratta.
Asthma is no longer a crippling disease, and with regular checkups, pulmonary function tests, and timely vaccinations, patients can lead a normal, active life. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are crucial for managing asthma effectively and allowing athletes to perform at their peak.
Bottomline
Asthma doesn't have to be a barrier to achieving athletic success. With proper management, adherence to prescribed medications, and following proven strategies, asthmatic athletes can compete at the highest levels and reach their full potential.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]