Related Experiment Videos
Exercise-induced bronchospasm at low temperature in elite runners
I J Helenius1, H O Tikkanen, T Haahtela
1Department of Allergic Diseases, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland.
Thorax
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Elite runners with atopy experience exercise-induced bronchospasm in cold air. Non-atopic runners are unaffected by heavy exercise in subzero temperatures, suggesting atopy is a key factor.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Respiratory Physiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Elite runners frequently report bronchial symptoms during cold-weather training.
- Exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in cold air is a concern for athletes.
- The study investigates the occurrence and causes of EIB in elite runners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of exercise-induced bronchospasm in elite runners exposed to cold air.
- To identify factors contributing to bronchospasm during heavy exercise in subzero temperatures.
- To assess the impact of atopy on exercise-induced lung function changes in runners.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-two non-asthmatic elite runners participated.
- Participants underwent a heavy exercise challenge test in subzero temperatures.
- Lung function testing and skin prick tests for atopy were performed.
Main Results:
- Atopic runners showed a mean maximal change in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of -4.8%.
- Non-atopic runners exhibited a mean maximal change in FEV1 of +2.1%.
- Eight of the sixteen atopic runners displayed abnormal lung function responses.
Conclusions:
- Heavy exercise in subzero temperatures induces bronchospasm in a significant proportion of elite runners with atopy.
- While lung function changes are often minor, they can impact performance in atopic athletes.
- Non-atopic runners did not exhibit exercise-induced bronchospasm in this study.