Great swimmers of the past and present have suffered and still suffer from asthma, but this has not stopped them on their path to success.
Asthma (i.e. chronic inflammation of the airways) is considered to be the epidemic of the third millennium.
Approximately 6% of children aged 6-8 suffer from it, with the symptoms worsening in case of emotional stress, cold, medication, dust, food and physical exercise.1
So, with the help of mathematics, you might think: (asthma + exertion)= danger!
Well you would be wrong.
The place where you practice sport plays a crucial role: a warm and humid environment like a swimming pool greatly diminishes the pathology in question. Swimming actually helps reduce bronco-constriction, which is one of the main symptoms of asthma.
If you ask your doctor or your son’s/daughter’s paediatrician which is the best sport for somebody who suffers from asthma, then the best and most frequent answer will be: swimming.
HOW TO CONTROL ASTHMA:
– Take a medical check-up to assess whether you are fit for physical exercise, including a careful test for allergies and asthma.
– Before any strenuous swimming, warm up properly and warm down slowly but effectively.
– Do not enter the water right after meals and/or taking medicine.
–…
