Manage exercise-induced asthma with proper warm-up and medication

What to Do

If you have asthma or experience coughing/wheezing during exercise, use a short-acting bronchodilator (albuterol) 15-30 minutes before running and perform a 15-30 minute warm-up. Don't let asthma stop you — regular exercise actually reduces symptoms over time.

Why It Works

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) affects up to 20% of people, many undiagnosed. ATS clinical guidelines strongly recommend pre-exercise bronchodilator use. A 2024 review found regular exercise reduces EIB severity, improves lung function, and decreases airway inflammation over time. A proper warm-up triggers a "refractory phase" where airways are less reactive.

Tips

• Cold, dry air is a common trigger — wear a buff or heat exchange mask over your mouth in winter
• Avoid running during high pollen counts or poor air quality days
• If you experience new respiratory symptoms during running, get evaluated — 40% of allergy patients have undiagnosed asthma
• Inhaled corticosteroids provide long-term management for persistent EIB