Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm: Simple Facts and Fast Fixes

If you ever feel tightness in your chest or start coughing right after a run, you might be dealing with exercise‑induced bronchospasm (EIB). It’s basically an asthma flare that shows up when you push yourself physically. The good news? You can spot it early and keep it under control without quitting the activities you love.

What Triggers an Attack?

EIB usually strikes when cold, dry air rushes into your lungs during cardio, or when pollen and pollutants are hanging around. Even a sudden sprint after a warm‑up can cause the airway muscles to tighten. Common signs include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or a lingering cough that starts a few minutes into exercise and may last up to an hour.

People who already have asthma are more likely to get EIB, but anyone can experience it—especially if they’re new to high‑intensity workouts. Stress, dehydration, and even a poorly timed inhaler dose can make the symptoms worse.

How to Keep Your Lungs Happy While Exercising

First, try a proper warm‑up: 10 minutes of light activity (like easy jogging or brisk walking) helps your airways adjust gradually. If you know the cold is coming, breathe through a scarf or mask; it warms and humidifies the air before it hits your lungs.

Most doctors recommend a short‑acting bronchodilator (often called a “rescue inhaler”) 15 minutes before you start exercising. It relaxes the airway muscles and can stop an attack before it starts. Keep your inhaler handy and know how many puffs you need—usually one to two.

If you’re still having trouble, consider talking to a healthcare provider about a daily controller medication like an inhaled corticosteroid. This can lower overall airway inflammation so that EIB episodes become rare.

Don’t forget to stay hydrated and avoid exercising right after eating a big meal. Both dehydration and a full stomach can make breathing feel tighter.

Lastly, track your symptoms. A simple notebook or phone app noting when you felt tightness, the weather, and what you were doing can help you and your doctor pinpoint patterns and adjust treatment.

With these practical steps—proper warm‑up, smart inhaler use, staying hydrated, and keeping an eye on triggers—you’ll be able to push through workouts without gasping for air. Remember, EIB is manageable; you just need the right plan in place.