Published Paper Details:

Asthma, a globally prevalent respiratory condition, involves chronic airway inflammation and variable expiratory airflow limitation. Among elite athletes, respiratory conditions are notably common, affecting 20% to 70% across specific sports. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a frequent issue, impacting performance. The prevalence varies based on sport, training, and genetics. Although exercise triggers asthma, paradoxically, it can also enhance pulmonary function. Athletes' asthma phenotypes differ, posing challenges in management. Unique aspects include heightened airway sensitivity, allergen exposure, pollutants, and temperature variations. This review delves into EIB in athletes, covering pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. EIB's pathogenesis involves complex interactions, including airway dehydration and cooling. Airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness are common. Elite athletes show distinct inflammatory responses influenced by sport, training, and environment. Certain sports, like swimming, pose higher EIB risks, with chlorine exposure in pools being a notable factor. Diagnosing EIB in athletes requires objective testing, as baseline lung function tests may yield normal results. Exercise and bronchoprovocation tests provide reliable diagnoses. Spirometry and bronchodilation tests are standard, but emphasis is shifting toward provocation tests. Despite challenges, optimal diagnosis is crucial for effective management, leading to improved performance and quality of life. Managing EIB aligns with general principles for symptom control, prevention, and reducing complications. Non-pharmacological approaches, trigger avoidance, and warming up are essential. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are key in asthma therapy for athletes, discouraging sole use of short-acting beta agonists. Mast cell stabilizing agents (MCSA) and leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA) are likely options. Optimal management enhances athletes' quality of life and allows effective pursuit of competitive sports.