EXERCISE-INDUCED BRONCHOCONSTRICTION - CURRENT UPDATE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR TREATING ATHLETES

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is the occurence of transient airway narrowing that occurs during or after exercise. A number of pathophysiological theories exist for the condition, from physio-logical to inhaled air quality and nutrition, all with immune mediation. Detailed history and clinical evaluation are required to make the diagnosis, substantiated by investigations of lung function establishing minimum airway hyperresponsiveness or bronchodilator response. Chronic management involves the prevention of acute attacks, which includes inhaled glucocorticosteroids and either long- and/or short-acting bronchodilators (beta(2)-agonists), and the use of non-pharmacological agents and methods. Acute asthma can be life-threatening and there are established guidelines on how to manage this. Prescribing and treating should bear in mind the current anti-doping regulations of the World Anti-Doping Agency.