Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) occurs in people who experience asthma symptoms during or after exercise. Although people with asthma may experience symptoms when they exercise, those with EIA are generally symptom-free when they are not exercising. In some cases, asthma may be triggered by a combination of factors that includes exercise.

People with EIA frequently give up physical activity. However, the condition is very rarely dangerous, and it should not prevent anyone from exercising as long as they take prescribed medications and closely follow their physician’s guidelines.

Many elite athletes have EIA and continue to excel at their chosen sports. Asthma in general is more often seen among Olympic athletes than in the population, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. However, some sports may be better than others. For instance, swimming is considered to be a great exercise choice for people with EIA, but cross-country skiing may not be a good choice.