Don’t Let Asthma Stop You from Going to the Gym

Asthma is a condition that generally does not agree with vigorous physical activity. Exercise-induced asthma is indicative of this. It occurs when you vigorously exercise (or, for more severe cases of exercise, when they moderately exercise).

Despite this problem, exercising isn't impossible for asthma patients. Here are a few tips to help you get through your workout.

Always Have Your Inhaler Handy

Asthma attacks can happen suddenly before you even know what's happening. An inhaler is the quickest way to get asthma medicine where it's needed, your lungs. It is also the fastest way to get your asthma under control. This is important because, even though it's uncommon, there are fatalities from not getting an asthma attack under control within a few minutes or a few hours.

You don't want to risk your life to asthma thinking “it could never happen to me.” No matter how small a chance there is, you shouldn't put yourself in danger.

Check Your Inhaler Technique

If you have your inhaler handy but don't know how to use it properly, then it's the same as not having an inhaler. Using the inhaler incorrectly could mean that you aren't getting the full dose of medicine.

Without the full dose, you may not have the ability to get through a full workout, or you may not be able to control an asthma attack efficiently if one occurs.

Experiment with Herbal Remedies

If you use herbs with natural anti-inflammatory properties, these could be a great way to control asthma at any time, not only while exercising. Garlic and turmeric are two herbs you can try. Steam baths can also help.

While extra steps must be taken to dampen the effects of asthma during exercise, it isn't impossible to get through it. By taking certain precautions such as the tips provided above, you should be able to safely power through a hardcore workout without having to worry about asthma cutting your exercise routine short.

Use CBD Oil to Prevent Symptoms

Cannabidiol oil (CBD) is a naturally occurring, non-hallucinogenic herbal substance that is extracted from the cannabis plant.

Studies have shown that the CB1 and CB2 receptors (cannabinoid receptors) have protective qualities of the lungs, so activating them may be able to control asthma symptoms and/or attacks. CBD oil's ability to decrease inflammation, clear airways, and prevent asthmatic symptoms from triggering at all comes from the fact that it activates the receptors.

Try Something Different

Asthma generally affects people when performing high aerobic activities, so running or other aerobic activity might be hard to implement all the time.

You could try to experiment with other forms of fitness like weight lifting, yoga, or strength training that you might find easier and more enjoyable. And of course, it’s imperative that you get a good night’s sleep to really benefit your illness and your new workout routine. Regardless of whether you’re currently active, on the road to activity, or are just starting to work out, having the right gear is essential.

Ian Walsh