What does exercise induced asthma feel like?

Exercise-induced asthma, also known as EIA, can be a challenging condition for those who are physically active. As an expert in respiratory health, I can explain what it feels like based on the experiences of those who suffer from it. When someone experiences exercise-induced asthma, they might feel a range of symptoms that typically begin during or shortly after engaging in strenuous physical activity. These symptoms can include: 1. Shortness of breath: This is often the most noticeable symptom, where the individual feels like they cannot get enough air despite trying to breathe deeply. 2. Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when air is forced through the narrowed airways. 3. Coughing: This can be a dry, hacking cough or produce phlegm, and it's often a result of the airways constricting and becoming irritated. 4. Chest tightness: Some people may describe a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest, which can be quite distressing. 5. Fatigue: Due to the difficulty in breathing, individuals may feel unusually tired or fatigued after exercise. The condition is caused by the airways in the lungs narrowing, a process known as bronchoconstriction. This narrowing makes it harder for air to flow in and out of the lungs, leading to the symptoms mentioned above. It's important to note that the severity and timing of symptoms can vary from person to person. Some may feel symptoms during exercise, while others may not notice anything until they have stopped and started to cool down.

Exercised-induced asthma is a narrowing of the airways in the lungs that is triggered by strenuous exercise. It causes shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing and other symptoms during or after exercise. The preferred term for this condition is exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (brong-koh-kun-STRIK-shun).