Physical activity is recommended as part of the routine of those with the disease; see the cure
EINSTEIN AGENCY – Yoga and other exercises can help improve lung function in asthma patients, shows a review of studies by Chinese scientists from Henan University, recently published in Annals of Medicine, which compared the effect of different breathing practices in cases of asthma.
To arrive at the result, the authors carried out a meta-analysis of 28 studies, which involved more than 2,100 volunteers and addressed various breathing techniques, from aerobic exercises to relaxation techniques and yoga. Lung health was assessed using spirometry tests, which measure how much air the patient can move when inhaling and exhaling.
All types of exercise evaluated demonstrated benefits for lung function, most notably yoga and breathing exercises combined with aerobic training.
“Current studies have shown that exercise can improve asthma control and lung function, reduce acute episodes of the disease, as well as improve quality of life and anxiety,” says pulmonologist Ricardo Magaldi, of ‘Israelite Albert Einstein Hospital.
According to physiotherapist Lavinia Clara Del Roio, from the Occupational, Environmental and Smoking Respiratory Diseases Group of the Heart Institute (InCor), in São Paulo, “techniques focused on abdominal breathing stimulate the diaphragm, the main muscle involved in the expansion and in the contraction of the lungs”. Furthermore, according to the expert, yoga involves postures that promote blood circulation.
Be careful during physical activity
In the past, physical activity was contraindicated for asthmatics because it was believed to trigger or worsen attacks. Indeed, patients with poorly controlled disease often experience symptoms during exercise. Some even experience the condition only during physical activity, a condition known as exercise-induced asthma or exercise-induced bronchospasm.
However, today, physical activity is recommended as part of the routine to improve overall health and fight asthma. “There is no way to say that one exercise is better than another. It is important to maintain medical monitoring to evaluate the stabilization of the clinical picture and the response to medications, or even if there may be a condition of asthma induced by physical exertion” , advises Magaldi, pulmonologist.
“Physical activity must be carried out safely, taking into account individual characteristics such as age, environmental factors and disease control,” adds Del Roio. Therefore, it must be implemented gradually and well guided by the doctor, considering the possible triggers of the crises, such as temperature, humidity, presence of allergens, as well as the drugs necessary to control the condition.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
