Exercise, physical activity, and asthma
The incidence of asthma in children varies among countries and can be estimated to range between 5% and 20%. Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) is common in patients with asthma but can also occur in some children without asthma. Typical symptoms of EIA include cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath shortly after exercise. The pathophysiology of EIA is not completely understood, but it has been shown that airway cooling and drying with increased ventilation during exercise and airway re-warming after exercise play a pivotal role. In addition, a lack of physical activity may also contribute to EIA. Regular exercise may increase fitness and psychological well-being but may also positively influence airway inflammation in children with asthma. The diagnosis of EIA is based on the typical history and may be verified by an exercise challenge test. Every child with EIA should be able to engage in all type of physical activities.