Running and asthma cough

[Jobarton]

Hi, i am waiting on an appointment with the hospital. I have been told it be 8 weeks to wait 😔. I don't have all the symptoms of asthma but just the coughing. Has anyone got any advice on how they cope with running or exercise. In one year i have gone from running well to struggling to run 5k without stopping. Either i have to stop to cough or there is no energy. How does anyone cope with exercise? I am hoping the hospital will be able to sort my cough out 😔. I can't believe how much things have changed in one year. Thanks

[Hidden]

Hi to be honest I think you would be best not to try and push yourself so hard at the moment. It sounds like you could have exercise induced asthma and if you are given an inhaler it would make it easier for you.

In the meantime why not ask to see your asthma nurse at your doctors? Maybe she could help until you get your appointment through.

[risabel59]

Royal Brompton hospital is running a research study on exercise induced asthma that is still recruiting. It might be helpful to sign up as you get a full hospital work up as part of the protocol. And you get to find out how best to manage your own symptoms.

Other than that ask your GP for a Ventolin inhaler and use it about 20 mins before exercising, and during a run if you need it. I generally use before and at about 7km or 40 mins into a run. Over a half marathon I generally use about 6 puffs in total.

Hope this is helpful

R

[Hidden]

Hi Jobarton

I've asked our nurses team about your query and Caroline has got back.

If you are already on a combination inhaler with spacer, and you've had your inhaler technique checked and it's worth talking to your healthcare professional about montelukast.

As already mentioned, some people take 2 puffs of Ventolin pre-exercise helps and also keeping Ventolin with them while exercising.

It might be useful to record your peak flow pre and post exercise before your appointment with the hospital consultant (more info on peak flow is here: bit.ly/2tBuFdJ)

. You could also ask the hospital to look into into vocal cord dysfunction which can often contribute to exercise-induced asthma.

If you would like more advice and support then please feel free to give our nurses team a ring on 0300 222 5800 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).

Take care,

Dita

[AbsTan]

Have they considered silent reflux? As the running could cause acid to come up and trigger cough. Could try a swig Ogmore Gaviscon prior to run and see if it creates a raft?