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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Myrna Manners, Kathleen Robinson, Peggy Sung
Phone: (212) 821-0560
E-mail: pes2001@mail.med.cornell.edu
WINTER EXERCISE MAY EXACERBATE ASTHMA COMPLICATIONS
New York-Cornell's Asthma Specialist Offers Advice for Exercising in the Winter Months
Whether speed walking or taking the dog for a run, avid exercisers don't let the icy temperatures of winter keep them indoors. But many people don't realize that exercising in cold weather can be hazardous for millions of Americans with asthma.
According to Dr. Abraham Sanders, a pulmonologist at the New York Presbyterian/New York-Cornell, "It's crucial that all asthmatics know about possible triggers. For active men and women, that means being aware of potential dangers of cold weather exercise."
"Winter is already a difficult time for asthmatics because ailments like the cold and flu can evolve into more serious conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Adding exercise to the mix can mean even more trouble."
Dr. Sanders recommends the following tips when exercising in the winter:
- Always wear a scarf over the mouth and nose to warm the air before you
breathe in.
- Warm up with stretching and light activity before exercising, shoveling,
or beginning more strenuous physical activities. Make sure you cool
down, too.
- Take all medications as prescribed, even if you feel fine.
- Use common sense--If it's too cold or icy, head inside for mall walking
or another activity.
- When exercising indoors, be sure that the exercise area is humidified
and ventilated.
- Dress in layers. Layering clothes underneath a wind and waterproof
outer shell helps maintain body heat.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Your body needs fluids during cold weather,
too. Try carrying a water bottle.
- If you've been sedentary or have health problems, check with your
doctor before starting any exercise program.
© 1999 New York Presbyterian Hospital
Weill Medical College of Cornell University
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