Asthma

Question 1

What is Asthma?

Answer 1

Chronic respiratory condition - airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness

Question 2

Asthma + Exercise

Answer 2

High intensity exercise may trigger an asthma attack

Cold/dry air = more likely to trigger an attack (breathe through nose)

Question 3

Asthma Attack Symptoms

Answer 3

Wheezing
Coughing
SoB
Tight chest
Fast HR and RR
Drowsiness/confusion/dizziness
Fainting

Question 4

ASCM Guidelines

Answer 4

• resistance and aerobic exercise
• at 50% of peak O2 uptake
  -20-30min duration for 3-5 days a week
• avoid exercising at the coldest times of the day (not mornings or evenings)
  -avoid exercise pollition/allergens (indoors)

Question 5

ATS Guidelines

Answer 5

• at 60-75% max work rate
• 20-30mins 2-5 times per week
• if cannot tolerate 20 mins - 2-3mins of high-intensity intervals

Question 6

Medications

Answer 6

Salbutamol, corticosteroids, short-acting beta-agonists

SABAs relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe