How Pollution and Airborne Allergens Affect Exercise

In brief

Air pollution, airborne allergens, and changing weather conditions—alone or in combination—can hinder physical activity. In any active individual, high ozone levels can cause restrictive lung dysfunction, and high carbon monoxide levels can impair oxygen delivery. Sulfur dioxide worsens nasal symptoms in people who have allergies and causes bronchospasm in those who have asthma. Airway irritation from fine particulates can lead to bronchospasm. Atopic individuals suffer from the well-known effects of fungi and pollen. If a change in exercise routine or activity doesn't relieve symptoms, pharmacologic treatment may include antihistamines, immunotherapy, inhaled corticosteroids, and/or inhaled beta-₂ bronchodilators.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Henry Gong

Dr Gong is a professor of medicine and Ms Krishnareddy is a research assistant at the Environmental Health Service, Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center, Downey, California. Dr Gong is also a professor of medicine in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles.

Sumana Krishnareddy

Dr Gong is a professor of medicine and Ms Krishnareddy is a research assistant at the Environmental Health Service, Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center, Downey, California. Dr Gong is also a professor of medicine in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles.