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Asthma

Asthma is a condition that affects the airways – the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs.

“When a person with asthma comes into contact with something that irritates their airways (an asthma trigger), the muscles around the walls of the airways tighten so that the airways become narrower and the lining of the airways becomes inflamed and starts to swell. Sometimes, sticky mucus or phlegm builds up, which can further narrow the airways.

These reactions cause the airways to become narrower and irritated – making it difficult to breath and leading to symptoms of asthma.”

Symptoms include:

  • shortness of breath
  • tightness in the chest
  • coughing or wheezing
  • decreased sporting performance

I’ve had asthma since I was a child. It made PE in school a pretty horrible experience, especially Cross Country! Although there is no cure for asthma, there are treatments that can reduce the risk of attacks – I took 2 inhalers every day, to prevent and relieve the symptoms.

Fortunately as with a lot of people, the condition improved as I got older. While I still struggle with it when I get sick or the weather is really cold, on a day-to-day basis I rarely notice my asthma anymore. It’s definitely still a challenge I face with my fitness goals, but I’m grateful as to how much a regular exercise schedule has actually significantly improved my health.

Asthma doesn’t have to be an obstacle to exercise!

For more information head to Asthma UK.

DISCLAIMER: I am not a medical professional. Please always seek advice from your GP before engaging in any activities which might be affected by a pre-existing condition. 

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