My child has asthma. Current medications allow many professional athletes who have chronic asthma, such as Jackie Joyner-Kersee, to excel in sports. Outdoor winter sports, especially where the air is cold and dry, can trigger symptoms, although high altitude in itself is not a factor for kids with controlled asthma. Snowboarding, skiing and skating should not be a problem, with proper treatment.
Simple precautions can make a big difference.
Avoid outdoor activities on extremely cold days and don t ski or snowboard alone. Use a facemask, which helps warm the air before it reaches the lungs. This is preferable to a loose scarf. Because sports and exercise are important to a child s overall health, parents working together with doctors can create an effective team to encourage children to exercise while monitoring their health. With proper evaluation, treatment and follow-through, your child should be able to safely pursue the outdoor winter activities that interest him or her.