Exercise-induced Asthma and Anaphylaxis

With increased popularity in exercise, the number of individuals with exercise-induced asthma (EIA), or 'exercise-induced bronchospasm', has increased due to an increased awareness among physicians of the clinical symptoms associated with EIA. EIA affects approximately 75 to 95% of asthmatic patients. 40% of children with allergic rhinitis have EIA, whereas only 3 to 11% of nonasthmatics have EIA. Although athletes with asthma have been recognised for years, EIA in nonasthmatic individuals has gained recognition since the 1984 Olympics. Vague symptoms of recurring poor performance, fatigue despite adequate conditioning, or 'getting winded' during an athlete's usual workout may be the presenting complaints. Athletes may be more likely to attribute these symptoms to poor conditioning or an upper respiratory infection, and not seek immediate assistance. Younger athletes may complain of stomach ache or refuse to participate in strenuous play because of an inability to keep up with other children. Additionally, an awareness of exercise-induced anaphylaxis needs to be considered when discussing aspects of airway compromise following exercise; however, its presentation is more urgent than those with EIA. Although the pathophysiology of EIA is somewhat controversial, the most likely explanation is a combination of heat and water loss leading to mediator release. The different medications that have been used to treat EIA are based on theories regarding the bronchial hyperreactivity of EIA.