Effect of swimming on peak expiratory flow rate of atopic children

This study was conducted to evaluate the role of swimming on mechanic of lung in healthy individual and patients with asthma. A total 76 girls who took part in the course of regular swimming session three day per week for eight weeks enrolled in this study. All of them completed ISAAC written questionnaire and individual who was suspected of asthma or other atopic diseases was referred to allergist for more evaluation. Peak expiratory flow rate was recorded for participants at beginning, one hour after swimming and two months later. According to ISAAC questionnaire 35.4% had asthma or other atopic diseases. Increase in PEFR more than 20% of personal best was seen in 21.9% after one hour swimming and in 27.6% after two months. Increase in PEFR was significant in healthy individual and asthmatic patients and obese but was not significant in patients with allergic rhinitis or eczema. This study suggests swimming in indoor pool is useful for patients with asthma in spite of potential toxic role of chlorine in exacerbation of asthma symptoms and lung mechanics.