Exercise
Description
An in-depth report on the benefits and types of exercise.
Exercise's Effects on the Lungs
Patients with chronic lung problems have difficulty exercising. Shortness of breath is a major limitation in most patients, but in about a third, muscle fatigue is an even greater problem. Although exercise does not improve lung function, training helps many patients with chronic lung disease by strengthening their limb muscles, thus improving endurance and reducing breathlessness.
Effects on Respiratory Infections (Colds and The Flu)
In people who already have colds, exercise has no effect on the illness' severity or duration of the infection. High-intensity or endurance exercises, however, appear to suppress the immune system while they are being performed. Some highly trained athletes, for instance, report being susceptible to colds after strenuous events. People should avoid strenuous physical activity when they have high fevers or widespread viral illnesses. Very low-fat diets appear to worsen the effect.
Effects of Exercise on Asthma
Long-term exercise may help control asthma and reduce hospitalization. One 2000 study found that aerobic exercise improves breathing capacity and function in-patients with mild asthma. People who enjoy running should probably choose an indoor track to avoid pollutants. Swimming is particularly excellent for people with asthma. Yoga practice, which uses both stretching, breathing, chest expansion, and meditation techniques may have specific benefits that include stress reduction as well as airway opening. One study reported that two thirds of patients who practiced yoga regularly were able to reduce or eliminate their asthma medications.
Exercise-Induced Asthma.
About 40% to 90% of asthma cases are exercise-induced asthma (EIA), in which exercise triggers coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. It occurs most often in children and young adults and during intense exercise in cold dry air. EIA is triggered
only
by exercise. Unlike allergic asthma, there is no long-term increase in airway activity. People who only have EIA do not require long-term maintenance therapy. The warm-up and cool-down periods, which are important for any exercise regimen, may help reduce EIA events. A study of military recruits found that exercise-induced asthma attacks did not hinder their ability to perform or train, suggesting that EIA is not a reason to exclude people from physically demanding occupations.
Exercise-induced asthma is distinct from allergic asthma in that it does not produce long-term increase in airway activity. People who only experience asthma when they exercise may be able to control their symptoms with preventive measures such as warm-up and cool-down exercises.
Effects of Exercise on Emphysema
Walking is the best exercise for people with emphysema. Patients should try to walk three to four times daily for five to 15 minutes each time. Devices that assist ventilation may reduce breathlessness that occurs during exercise. Inspiratory muscle training involves exercises and devices that make inhaling more difficult in order to strengthen breathing muscles. In a 2001 study, patients who took part in a training group improved their breathing, walking capacity, and quality of life. Yoga or martial arts exercises, such as tai chi, that emphasize breathing techniques and balanced movements may be particularly beneficial for these patients.
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Review Date: 3/6/2006
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Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital
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