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Abstract
In brief: Many US athletes with exercise-induced asthma (EIA) won medals in the 1984 Olympics, proving that EIA need not sideline an athlete. This article reviews the history of research on EIA and the pathophysiology of the condition. The development of EIA is influenced by the type and duration of exercise and by air contaminants. Changes in the arterial concentrations of O2 and CO2 previously were thought to be the main causes of EIA, but air temperature and humidity have been recognized more recently as important factors. Exercising in a warm, humid environment and breathing slowly through the nose help to control EIA. Four groups of drugs that are effective against EIA-theophylline, beta-adrenergic agents, cromolyn sodium, and anticholinergics-are discussed.