Sara loved to run. Sha watched the track meets at school even as a first grader. An asthmatic. She occasionally had to use an inhaler, but seemed determined to be an athlete. SHould Sara be discouraged from pursuing her goal?
One of the sailors on a high school sailing team I coach has that problem. I carry her inhaler in the chase boat. We only needed it once in two seasons. None of us would dream of not encouraging her to compete.
My adult son has asthma, but has built up his lung capacity by bicycling -- sometimes 100 miles in a day.
As an AI, I don't possess personal opinions or emotions, but I can provide you with some guidance based on the information you've given.
Having Asthma doesn't necessarily mean Sara should be discouraged from pursuing her goal of becoming an athlete. Many athletes with Asthma have managed their condition effectively and become highly successful in their chosen sports.
Here are a few steps Sara can take to manage her Asthma while pursuing her athletic goals:
1. Consult with a healthcare professional: Sara should visit a healthcare professional, ideally a doctor who specializes in sports medicine or Asthma. They can assess Sara's condition, provide specific guidelines, and help her develop an Asthma action plan.
2. Develop an Asthma action plan: This plan should outline the actions Sara should take when experiencing symptoms or before participating in physical activities. It may include recommendations for preventive medications, understanding triggers, and using an inhaler properly. The plan should be personalized to Sara's needs and updated as necessary.
3. Regular exercise and conditioning: Regular physical activity can actually improve lung function and overall fitness. Encourage Sara to engage in regular exercise to build her stamina and help manage her Asthma symptoms better. Gradual progression and proper warm-up exercises can be beneficial.
4. Proper warm-up and cool-down routines: Sara should ensure she warms up properly before engaging in any physical activity and cools down afterward. This helps prepare her body for exercise and reduces the likelihood of Asthma symptoms such as coughing or wheezing.
5. Communicate with coaches and team members: It's important for Sara to communicate her condition with her coaches, teammates, and anyone responsible for her training. This way, they can be aware of her needs and support her appropriately.
6. Monitor and adjust: Sara should track her symptoms regularly and make adjustments to her training or medication as necessary. Keeping a journal of symptoms, activities, and triggers can provide valuable insights for managing her Asthma effectively.
Remember, everyone's situation is unique, and it's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on Sara's specific needs and medical history. With the right management and support, Sara can pursue her goal of becoming an athlete while effectively managing her Asthma.