How to Stay Active with Asthma

Asthma is a common chronic condition affecting 1 in 13 people in the United States. It can make daily activities difficult because anything from pollen to exercise can trigger the coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath typical of asthma. 

While asthma symptoms vary from person to person, once you know your triggers, you can create a plan to avoid them. Take exercise, for example. When you know exertion will likely set off your asthma symptoms, you can learn how to manage it and still live an active life. 

At Primary Medical Physicians LLC in Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, and Davie, Florida, we can help you monitor your asthma and identify the underlying causes of attacks. 

How people with asthma can maintain a healthy, active lifestyle 

Regular exercise is part of a healthy life. It helps you stay mobile, improves blood circulation, and decreases weight. However, if you have asthma, you want to ensure you’re exercising safely and in a way that’s less likely to trigger your symptoms. 

Consult with your team of experts 

Before starting any new exercise program, speaking with our asthma healthcare specialists is important. At Primary Medical Physicians, we evaluate your current health and lifestyle and assess your lung function. Next, we help you set exercise goals with customized recommendations. 

We also prescribe appropriate asthma medications to help manage your symptoms if needed. 

Choose appropriate exercises

Lower-intensity exercises are more suitable for anyone with asthma than high-intensity programs. You can enjoy walking, swimming, yoga, or bike riding despite asthma. 

Don’t forget to warm up and cool down with stretching to prepare your body for the coming exercise. 

Monitor your symptoms 

When you pay attention to your feelings and recognize your asthma triggers, you can take a break when necessary. Monitor your breathing, comfort level, and heart rate; if you feel it’s too much, stop what you’re doing and use your inhaler as needed. 

Know what environmental factors trigger your symptoms 

Pollen, pet dander, or extreme heat or cold can trigger asthma symptoms. Knowing these pose a potential problem, you can plan your day accordingly. 

For example, exercise indoors if the pollen count is high. You can follow thousands of videos online if you don’t belong to a gym. From gentle yoga to indoor walking routines, there’s something to suit every interest. 

Living with asthma can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to mean you can’t exercise and live a healthy life. With a clean bill of health from Primary Medical Physicians, a customized plan, and knowing your triggers, you’ll be on your way to a healthier lifestyle. 

Click here to schedule your appointment with Primary Medical Physicians in Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, and Davie, Florida, to create a plan to stay active with asthma.