The doctor said that symptoms typically appear within minutes of starting to exercise in winter
A doctor has shared the little known symptoms anyone exercising during winter should look out for. As temperatures drop, GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, Dr Neel Patel, shared the advice for asthma sufferers who want to keep active.
A new survey from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor reveals that 64% of people find it more difficult to regulate their breathing when exercising in cold weather. A further 66% admit they become breathless more quickly.
However, for those who suffer from asthma, symptoms can be much worse in winter. Dr Patel has revealed how to manage asthma in cold weather and offered tips to those who want to stay active, but find they easily become short of breath.
According to the doctor, asthma can be worse in winter. He said: “Exercising in cold weather is harder for everyone. But it can be even more of a problem if you have a lung condition.
“Asthma sufferers often find exercising in cold, dry air can cause a flare-up. Asthma & Lung UK found 70% of people with lung conditions said cold air worsened their symptoms.
“This is because cold, dry air can irritate your airways, worsening symptoms like wheezing, coughing and breathlessness. Plus, cold air can cause your airways to narrow. This can increase the amount of mucus you produce making it hard to breathe.
“On top of this, cold air can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight respiratory infections like colds and flu. Plus, when it’s cold, we tend to spend more time indoors where respiratory infections can spread more easily.”
While asthma sufferers can be affected, those without it can also experience symptoms of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction when trying to keep fit in the cold weather. Dr Patel said: “Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is the medical term for exercise-induced asthma. While up to 90% of people with asthma also have EIB, you may experience EIB even if you don’t have asthma.
“It’s caused by the loss of heat, water or both from the airways during exercise in the cold. This is because cold air typically contains less moisture.”
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction symptoms
The doctor added: “Symptoms typically appear within minutes of starting exercise. They may continue for 10 to 15 minutes after you finish working out. You should consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.”
According to Dr Patel, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction is most likely to occur when running or cycling in polluted areas or playing outdoor sports. He added: “Although pollen can also be a trigger. Sports played on ice or snow, such as ice hockey and cross-country skiing, are also common triggers.
“You may be surprised to learn you can also experience EIB when working out inside, for example in a gym or swimming pool. The chemicals in chlorine, perfume, cleaning products, paint and new equipment can be triggers.”
