A vicious cycle is often seen in people with breathing problems. Children with asthma may feel breathless, or show other signs of asthma, at lower levels of activity than children with normal lungs. To avoid this sensation the child reduces his or her level of activity, which leads to a greater degree of deconditioning, which in turn increases breathlessness at even lower levels of activity. The cycle continues until one is left with a population of inactive, unfit children who become teenagers and then adults. They may become too embarrassed to begin exercising again.
Regular exercise is especially critical for children and teens with asthma.
Many habits are well-formed by the time people reach their early teens. Children may learn to avoid outdoor play, sports, and other physical activities that produce symptoms. Because of their decreased participation, for example, children with asthma may be considered lazy. Go back to Section 5 of Asthma and Exercise, Reducing EIB .