The effect of exercise in the asthmatic child - its clinical implications

Appropriate exercise will provoke an attack of bronchospasm in virtually all asthmatic children. Exercise-induced asthma can effectively be prevented by pre-exercise treatment with sympathomimetic drugs or sodium cromoglycate, and there is no reason why an asthmatic should not participate in sporting activities. Running at a steady pace for 6 - 8 minutes (submaximal effort) is the most asthmagenic exercise, whereas swimming is the least athmagenic.