• Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), previously EIA, results in airway constriction during or following exercise, and wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness.
• Cold, dry air, allergens, pollution, and vigorous exercise are typical precipitants; swimming is frequently less of a problem because warm, humid air is breathed.
• Warming up, the use of a rescue inhaler, the selection of appropriate activities, nasal breathing, and air quality monitoring are all management options. 

Ever felt like you are gasping for air after a workout, even when you are in good shape? If your breathing gets tight, wheezy, or downright difficult during or after exercise, you might have exercise-induced asthma (EIA), now called exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). But do not worry, it does not mean you have to give up your favorite activities. With the right game plan, you can keep moving without gasping for air!

What Exactly is Exercise-Induced Asthma

EIA happens when physical activity causes your airways to narrow, making it harder to breathe. Symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath usually kick in a few minutes into exercise, peak shortly after stopping, and can last up to an hour. It is more common in cold, dry air or when you are exposed to triggers like pollen, pollution, or strong smells. Unlike regular breathlessness from being out of shape, EIA comes with a tight, wheezy chest feeling that just would not go away easily.

The culprit? Fast breathing through the mouth. Normally, your nose warms and humidifies the air before it reaches your lungs, but when you breathe hard through your mouth, especially in cold weather, you skip that built-in filter, and your airways react by tightening up.

What Triggers Exercise-Induced Asthma

EIA can be triggered by:

• Cold, arid air, typical of winter sports such as skiing or racing in cold climates.
• Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or dust may exacerbate symptoms.
• Smog & pungent smells of automobile exhaust, smoke, or perfumes can irritate respiratory passages.

Interestingly, swimming is usually easier on the lungs because of the warm, humid air around pools, while activities like running or cycling in cold air tend to be tougher.

Controlling and Staving Off Symptoms

The best part? EIA is completely controllable with a few intelligent tactics:

• Gradually warm up first and begin slowly with stretching or a gentle jog to help your lungs get underway.
• Inhaling a rescue inhaler along with medications such as Albuterol prevents symptoms if done prior to exercise.
• Selecting the appropriate exercises such as swimming, walking, and yoga are excellent choices less likely to trigger EIA.
• Breathe in through your nose that serves to warm and filter the air before it reaches your lungs.
• Monitor the air quality for pollution or pollen levels, if it is high, opt for indoor exercises.

Staying Active with EIA

Just because you have EIA does not mean you have to sit on the sidelines. Opt for sports with short bursts of activity (like baseball or golf) instead of endurance-heavy exercises. If running is your thing, try intervals with walking breaks. And if cold air is a problem, covering your mouth with a scarf or mask will trap in moisture and warmth. Most of all, see your doctor if the symptoms persist. He may suggest a change in medication or some breathing exercises to keep your lungs at peak performance.

By doing it the right way, you can stay active, stay healthy, and breathe easy—no matter your exercise of preference!