You are here:

Asthma/prescreening for aerobic training

Advertisement

Expert: - 5/31/2008


Question
What are the reasons for an asthmatic to take a prescreening test before an
exercise program is designed?

Answer
The trainer wants an clear picture of your lung function. In general, an asthmatics perception of how good their lung function is, generally is overly optimistic, unless they are doing peak flow measurements, and that they have updated their "personal best" score in the past year (if over the age of 25).

An new dynamic in the latest asthma guidelines are determining the parameters of impairment and risk. By knowing up front how much impairment in lung function you have can give a guide to how the trainer wants to develop an appropriate program without putting you at risk for  an asthma attack. I'm sure the trainer will also check your joint flexibility, and other physical parameters to customize a program especially for you. Just with asthma, there is one mare area to check to make it right.

Hope this helps!

Marc

Asthma

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.