BREATHING REACTIONS
Exercise reactions, range from red blotchiness on the neck, face, or arms (urticaria), to exercise-induced
asthma or bronchospasm, or even anaphylaxis. Exercise-induced Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction
requiring immediate medical attention. A Physician may prescribe carrying a bee-sting kit as treatment.
Exercise-induced asthma may be triggered by exercising in cold, dusty, or excessively humid
environments, and can range in severity from mild coughing to severe discomfort. Individuals who suspect
that they have exercise-induced asthma are encouraged to seek medical attention.
General recommendations for persons with exercise-induced asthma include an extended warm-up,
avoidance of cold, dusty, or extremely humid environments for exercise. A physician may recommend and
inhaler.
Hyperventilation is the process of repeated quick and shallow breaths utilizing the top of the chest. This
sharply reduces the level of carbon dioxide in the blood, which causes the arteries in the body to constrict
thereby reducing the flow of blood throughout the body. This includes the carotid artery to the brain. Lack
of blood flow, and subsequently oxygen, trigger the sympathetic nervous system. This may cause the
anxiety and irritability.
Hyperventilation can be caused by anxiety, extensive physical injuries or even heart or lung disease. It is
important to keep the victim calm. Have everyone step back and give them some "breathing room". A
crowd can increase the anxiety level for the victim.
Hyperventilation Procedure:
- Cover the nose and mouth with a small paper bag
- Breath slowly and re-breathe bagged air about 10 times
- Then breathe normally for a few minutes, about one breath every 5 seconds
- Repeat above if symptoms persist.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
In hot weather wear light clothing that breathes well, and allows for the evaporation of sweat.
"Sauna suits", "tummy wraps", and other products designed to encourage quick weight loss through sweat
are particularly dangerous. The body can reach dangerous (or even fatal) core temperatures in very short
periods of time. Any weight lost is simply water and will be regained as soon as water is ingested again.
Exercise at a reduced intensity during high humidity. The body is cooled by blood circulation and the
evaporation of sweat. In a high humidity, evaporation becomes less effective at cooling, and the risk of
heat-related injury is greater.
Adequate hydration is also key to safe exercise in the heat, as the body will produce large quantities of
sweat. Ingest 1-2 cups of water before exercise and 4 oz every 10 to 15 minutes during exercise.
Thirst lags behind the body's need for fluid. By the time thirst is felt dehydration has occurred. Minor
dehydration can affect performance, and severe dehydration can be life threatening.
Contrary to popular belief, water consumed during exercise will not contribute to cramping, so "swish and
spit" should be avoided in favor of consuming small amounts of water steadily during the exercise session.
Dehydration can actually contribute to cramping.
In cold weather, dress in layers that will wick sweat away from the body. Remove outer layers as the body
warms and replace during the cool-down to avoid an excessive chill.