Running in the cold with Asthma...

PamelaRae88
PamelaRae88 Posts: 22
edited January 8 in Fitness and Exercise
Hey everyone,

I just got back from an attempted run today in the cold. It turned out to be 50% run, 50% walk because I couldn't breathe because of my asthma. I've had asthma since I was 12 (I'm now 24) and have always known running in the cold aggrevates it. I used my inhaler before hand, but I was wondering if anyone had any tips or tricks for me to try out so I can keep running even in the cold.

Thanks :-)

Replies

  • sally_jeffswife
    sally_jeffswife Posts: 766 Member
    I have asthma also not sure about the running thing but I know when you sleep it helps out if you put peppermint oil a few drops behind your ears n a few on your chest
  • 2hobbit1
    2hobbit1 Posts: 820 Member
    If you are using pre-exercise inhaler and it is not working then it is time to see your practitioner and get your meds reevaluated. You may need a daily med if you are not already on one or a change of dose if you are.

    The cold air is a trigger - so a face mask or scarf over your mouth and nose to prewarm the air a bit may help.

    ETA: There is always indoor on the treadmill - I know it is not the same but it may be all you can do if a med adjustment does not help.
  • Sabine_Stroehm
    Sabine_Stroehm Posts: 19,251 Member
    I wear a bandana around my neck, and start with it up around my face. As my breathing gets better I move it down.
    I look like a robber, but I can get through my run!

    Edit: Hubby also taught me that if you (can) breathe through your nose, it hurts the lungs less.
  • pet1127
    pet1127 Posts: 572 Member
    I cover my face with a meshy type scarf and breath in threw my nose it seems to help warm the air before it hit the broncular tubes
  • PamelaRae88
    PamelaRae88 Posts: 22
    I normally try to breathe through my nose but since I'm still somewhat congested from a cold, it didn't last long haha. I will have to try the scarf thing, I've never heard of that.

    My inhaler is a very basic one, since now I'm able to recognize when I'm getting an asthma attack and I can usually prevent it (i.e. stopping before it becomes a full attack). The only times I carry my inhaler are running in cold and really hot. I can always ask if another inhaler would work better but it's not something I use on a regular basis...(which may be something to look into as well?)
This discussion has been closed.

Categories