Exercise-induced bronchospasm in the young athlete

Abstract

Exercise induced bronchospasm (EIB) commonly occurs several minutes into or following an exercise event. Respiratory heat loss and respiratory water loss have been suspected as the precursor to exercise-induced bronchospasm. Obstructive EIB has been reported in elite Olympic athletes as well as the recreational athlete. Although exercise-induced bronchospasm presents as wheezing, chest tightness, or dizziness during or after exercise, cough post-exercise is a common and an easily detected characteristic of EIB. When exercise induced bronchospasm is suspected in the young athlete, an exercise challenge test should be performed. A 10% or more decrease in the peak expiratory flow rate in the post-exercise period is diagnostic of EIB. Once the diagnosis of EIB has been made, both nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions are beneficial in reducing the airway responsiveness. Nonpharmacological measures include extensive education and cardiovascular fitness evaluation. Initial pharmacological management should consist of a trial of albuterol inhaler use 15 min prior to exercise. Early identification and treatment of EIB may enhance sports performance as well as enjoyment.