Things to consider before running if you are an asthmatic
Things to consider before running if you are an asthmatic
As per the Global Asthma Report 2018, in India 1.31 billion people (6 per cent children and 2 per cent adults) suffer from asthma. Living with asthma can put people off the idea of taking activities like running, jogging or participating in various sports, depending on the severity of their illness. But recent research has found that light, regular exercise like running can have a positive effect on the lung health of people who have asthma. But experts say people with asthma should consider these three things before they start running.
Consult your doctor
Talk to your doctor and get your medicines reviewed. Your asthma needs to be in control before you take up running. Uncontrolled asthma can put stress on your lungs and respiratory system. To benefit your lung health from running, first, you need to get your symptoms checked. If you have just been diagnosed with asthma, it is better to take some time and adjust to it before you start any new form of exercise.
​Know your triggers
It is of utmost importance to be aware of the things that can aggravate your asthma and thus avoid them. If hayfever and allergies are your triggers, schedule your run at a time when the pollen count is low. It's best to do a long warmup to ease your body into a running session and a long cooldown at the end.
Choose walking if you are struggling with running
If you find running difficult, it's okay
to walk. Know the warning signs and start walking the moment you feel
you are losing control of breathing. Simply go for a walk or switch
between walking and running.
Important: Do not forget to take your emergency inhaler along, whenever you go out for a run.