Exercise has been shown to be an important part of the treatment of asthma, however. A recent study published in 2010 sought to determine the effects of 3 months of regular exercise (30 minutes twice a week) on asthma control and on the overall mental health of people with moderate to severe asthma. This study found that asthmatics who exercised regularly had a significant improvement in asthma symptoms and in mental health scores (reduced depression and anxiety) compared to asthmatics who did not exercise regularly.
Past studies have also shown that obese asthmatics can have significant improvement of their asthma with weight loss. Asthmatics that are severely overweight that lose weight -- either through diet or surgical methods -- improve their asthma symptoms with less medication needs, fewer hospitalizations and better lung function.
Read more about the association between asthma and obesity. Before starting any exercise or weight loss program, check with your doctor first. Your doctor can help you design an exercise or weight loss program that would be best and safest for you, and can identify potential problems that may occur. If you’re having problems with your asthma during exercise, read about some tips that can help you reduce your asthma symptoms during exercise.
Read more about exercise-induced asthma.
Source:
Mendes FAR, Goncalves RC, Nunes MPT, et al. Effects of Aerobic Training on Psychosocial Morbidity and Symptoms in Patients with Asthma. Chest. 2010;138(2):331-7.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Please see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.
