For Student Athletes with Asthma

You can still play your favorite sports at school and just for fun as long as your asthma is well managed and well controlled. In fact, there are many famous athletes who have asthma like:

Jerome Bettis - Professional football player
Bruce Davidson - Olympic equestrian
Nancy Hogshead - Olympic medallist
Jim "Catfish" Hunter - Professional baseball player
Jackie Joyner-Kersee - Olympic medallist
Dennis Rodman - Professional basketball player
Jim Ryun - Olympic medallist
Isaiah Thomas - Professional basketball player
Amy VanDyken - Olympic medallist
Dominique Wilkins - Professional basketball player

Here are some quick tips to keep your asthma under control and keep you on the playing field:

Start with a 15-minute warm-up to let your lungs adjust to the bigger demand for air
In cold weather, cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to help warm the air before it gets to your lungs
Stay away from triggers that may make your asthma worse (for example, don’t exercise outdoors when pollen counts are high if pollen is a trigger for you)
End with a 15-minute cool-down
Follow your asthma action plan about using medication before or after exercise. If you’re on a team, be sure your coach has a copy of your plan

Remember it is important to stay in shape. When you're in good shape your lungs are in good shape too! There are lots of ways to have fun, play sports and exercise. Find a way that works for you and tell your doctor, they will help make sure you have the best plan and the best medicine.

Click here to download an informational card on playing sports with asthma

To order informational cards contact Desi-Rae Severson at 207.287.3041 or via e-mail at desirae.severson@maine.gov

sample informational card

Asthma Information and publications

For Student Athletes with Asthma