Performance with Seasonal Allergies and Exercise-Induced Asthma

The Seattle Times' Eric Heiden, M.D. has a good discussion of the effect of seasonal allergies and exercise-induced asthma on athletes. The article covers some examples of athletes who have learned to work around or manage the seasonal allergies or asthma that have made performance difficult. The strategy used by cyclist Michele Bartoli to avoid complications from his seasonal allergies by avoiding May and June races, when his allergies are at their worst, is a good example. Also offered is advice on reducing the potential for the onset of exercise-induced asthma through pre-workout preparation, including extended warm-up in dry, cold, or polluted air that might trigger exercise-induced asthma.Seasonal allergies and exercise-induced asthma shouldn't prevent an active lifestyle but also should not be ignored. If you notice signs of exhaustion or underperformance during exercise that seem unusual contact our office to set up an appointment.