07-05-2025
The sign of major condition that you might notice when exercising – and it can be fatal
HEALTH chiefs have issued an important alert over a common lung condition that's 'often misunderstood'.
The condition, which affects your ability to breathe, usually starts in childhood but it can begin at any age.
2
Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in Ireland
Credit: Getty
Marking World Asthma Day this week, the
'This might mean difficulties breathing from time to time, or breathing problems most of the time.'
The
People with asthma are at risk of having a severe asthma attack.
READ MORE ON HEALTH
Ireland has one of the highest asthma rates in the world, affecting one in 10 people, according to the Asthma Society of Ireland.
Some 450,000 people in Ireland have asthma but many remain unsure where to turn for guidance.
Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and experiencing a tight chest feeling.
HSE ADVICE
THE cause is more likely to be asthma if the symptoms:
happen often and keep coming back
are worse at night and early in the morning
happen in response to an asthma trigger such as exercise or an allergy
change with the seasons - for example, they are worse in the summer or winter
See a GP if you think you or your child may have asthma.
We are still learning about the causes of asthma. But you may be at more risk of asthma if you:
Most read in Health
have a parent or sibling with asthma
have other allergic conditions, such as eczema
had a severe respiratory infection as a child
are exposed to dust or certain chemicals at your work
have overweight or
are exposed to air pollution
CEO of the Asthma Society, Eilis Ni Chaithnia, warned that asthma can be 'unpredictable' and 'frightening' at times.
How to spot asthma in your child and signs of an asthma attack
She said: 'For too long, there has been a misconception that asthma and physical activity don't mix.
'And if you've ever been left gasping for breath — or even hospitalised — from exercise, it's only natural to fear doing it again.
'But the evidence is clear: regular movement, done safely, strengthens your lungs, reduces inflammation, and can alleviate the mental toll of having a chronic disease.'
The group have just launched a free service on their Adviceline connecting people with a Senior Physiotherapist.
Olympian and asthma ambassador Derval O'Rourke, who has lived with asthma throughout her career, admitted she has second-guessed herself before training.
She said: 'But I also know that staying active has helped me manage my asthma, not worsen it.
'This campaign is about empowering people — whether you're walking around the block or aiming for a marathon, the support is there.'
Respiratory Consultant at Tallaght University Hospital and Trinity College, Professor Patrick Mitchell said that asthma is 'one of the most common chronic conditions in Ireland, yet it's often misunderstood'.
He explained: 'People with asthma should be able to participate fully in exercise — even competitive sport — with proper management.
'If symptoms appear during or after exercise, it may be a sign that the asthma is not well controlled, not that activity should be avoided.
'We know that regular activity, done safely, can actually reduce symptoms and improve lung function.
"That's why the right education, support and treatment are so important.'
For more information visit
2
Over 450,000 people in Ireland have asthma
Credit: Getty
