Transient constriction of airways as a consequence of vigorous exertion.
70-90% of patients with chronic asthma have an exercise component to their asthma.
Occurs in 12-15% of U.S. population.
Up to 40% of patients with allergic rhinitis have exercise induced bronchospasm.
5-10% of patients have no respiratory allergic disease.
Has no effect on military recruits physical performance in basic training despite a 7% incidence among recruits.
Asthmogenic potential of exercise depends on the amount of aerobic exercise that is achieved.
Symptoms usually appear 5-10 minutes after the onset of exercise.
Cold dry air, viral infections, allergic rhinitis, dust, tobacco smoke, automobile exhaust and chlorine may trigger symptoms.
Exercise induced bronchospasm-unlike asthma the bronchospasm is not associated with inflammation in the airways.