This time of year can be a poor one for asthma sufferers especially if yours is triggered by poor air quality or hay fever. 1 in 11 folks in the UK suffer from asthma including world-class runners like Jo Pavey and Paula Radcliffe. As long as you are looking after your asthma and the symptoms are under control you can enjoy regular exercise and it can help to cut the risk of asthma symptoms.
If you have asthma and want to join us for a run or walk please be mindful of these top tips from Dr Andy Whittamore, clinical lead for Asthma UK:
- Talk to your GP before starting an exercise programme. Start gently to see how your lungs react.
- Exercise can keep asthma symptoms controlled (less than 3 times per week). This means ensuring your background preventer (usually the brown one) is calming your symptoms down.
- Carry your reliever (usually the blue one) with you when you run or walk. Leaders try to remind you during warm up to bring your medication with you but it is your responsibility! The reliever will open airways in an attack.
- Don’t worry about being breathless – that’s perfectly normal when running – we all get that! Be aware of how heavy breathing differs from struggling for breath. Look out for other symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and chest tightening.
- Be aware of what triggers your asthma. If yours is very cold air then you might get complacent during the summer or vice versa. Be mindful and take care.
The warm, humid weather is also bringing out the insects so it’s worth giving yourself a spray with insect repellent before venturing into the park.
Stay safe SE Fitness!