Asthma Sufferers Warned to Slow
Down in Winter
Suzanne Rostler / Reuters 2nov00
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - For many people, exercising during the cold, short days of winter can be challenge enough. But individuals with asthma face more than seasonal difficulties, as jogging, skiing or skating when the mercury drops can trigger attacks that can send them racing for the hospital.
``People who have their disease under control can do just about anything,'' Dr. Abraham Sanders, a doctor at the New York Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York, told Reuters Health.
He said using an inhaler before heading out can relax the muscles in the airways. Attacks occur when these muscles spasm and constrict, restricting air from filling the lungs.
Similarly, cold dry air can trigger bronchial spasms. For this reason, doctors often recommend swimming for patients with asthma.
Sanders recommends that people drink plenty of water and dress in layers when heading outside. Wearing a windproof and waterproof shell can help the body stay warm, he said, and keeping a scarf wrapped around the mouth and nose can help warm the air before inhaling.
``Things can get worse if you go into cold, dry areas,'' Sanders said. ``You shouldn't go outside if your asthma has been acting up.''
Finally, asthmatics who want to begin an exercise program should check with their doctor before exercising outside. And if it is simply too cold, heading to the local mall or elsewhere for a walking workout is probably not a bad idea, he said.
