sports induced asthma

I've been "blessed" with this condition, diagnosed when I was 18 (better late than never!).  I use a rescue inhaler before my runs and often during them too. I have managed it very well during my previous races, except for these July 4th ones, which have been my only 2 in the heart of the summer.  last summer I spent a lot more time walking when the weather was dreadful.

My asthma does not like extreme weather (as I'm sure regular lungs don't appreciate either), but most uncomfortable is hot and humid.  Conveniently, I had a physical scheduled yesterday, so I mentioned it to my doctor, wondering if there were any new/better treatments, or was I even having a problem that other non-asthmatics have in the summer weather.

After some research, it turns out I do have an option!  Apparently Singulair has been approved for sports induced asthma.  I don't have to take it daily, just 2 hours before exercise on days I think I need it.

I can't wait to pick it up at the pharmacy and try it out!  

If anyone else has breathing issues when you think you shouldn't be, ask your doctor.  Sports/Exercise induced asthma is REAL, and can be treated!

Hi Sue,

What exactly is sports induced asthma? When I try running, I get really short of breath, almost like I'm wheezing and I have to stop and walk for a while until it gets better. As I get warmed up (after mile 5 or six), it doesn't happen as often, but almost always in the first mile or two. Is this what you are talking about?
Jan

your mention of wheezing is a big part of what happens to me.  I was diagnosed after doing some snow shoveling and couldn't stop coughing and wheezing afterwards.  I had noticed this often as a competitive swimmer, but didn't know it was not normal.  just assumed I was fat.

Anyway, you might have it.  I do much better after I settle in after the first mile or so, but it's hard to push through.

Here's some information: http://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/exercise-induced-asthma

-Sue

 So I've been monitoring my running and sure enough, every time I start, after a few minutes or so I start to get short of breath until I'm wheezing.  I always thought that it was just me needing to warm up.  It only happens when I try to jog.  Now that I know it's actually something, I'm going to see my doc and ask about that medicine. 

Thanks Sue!  I would never have known this otherwise.

Jan

i was given Albuterol (inhaler) 20 years ago, and have been using that ever since.  It has worked great for me, except in the hot/humid weather, and extreme cold/dry air.  I would suspect they will start you with that, which I think is appropriate.  I have consistently used my inhaler BEFORE every run, and except for extreme weather, has been a real life saver. 

I did try the singulair last night, and didn't use my inhaler, and did a good workout.  It was humid, but not too hot, so I shall keep trying it in different situations, but I'm optimistic!  :)

I take it as well. They gave it to me because of all my allergy/sinus troubles.

Singulair works for me, too. Love it!

I have exercise induced asthma also, but mine is triggered by pollen and mold.  The past two Springs have been brutal for me!!  I also take Singulair every night, Veramyst spray every morning, and two puffs on my inhaler before I run - it has helped tremendously, but there are still days that I simply can not breath when I run.  I am also doing allergy shots - I should be done in a few months.  I hope it works!!


I hope the singulair works for you - good luck!!
 

That's great information to know! I also get asthma and use my inhaler every time before a run. I've been down with injury for two weeks which is okay since the allergy season is bad right now. I might have to look into gettiing some singulair since the last 5k I ran, the pre-race puffer didn't do the trick. Thanks Sue!