Exercise Induced Asthma Treatment in India

Ishaan Das is a 28-year-old software...

Ishaan Das is a 28-year-old software engineer and weekend soccer enthusiast. He's always been active but over the past year, he noticed a pattern: 15-20 minutes into a game, he'd develop a tight, wheezing chest, a hacking cough, and feel like he couldn't catch his breath, forcing him to the sidelines. He initially dismissed it as being 'out of shape,' but it worsened, and his performance plummeted. His primary doctor, suspecting exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), referred him to a pulmonologist. The doctor recommended a cardiopulmonary exercise test with pre- and post-exercise spirometry to confirm the diagnosis. During the test, Ishaan ran on a treadmill while his lung function was monitored. The post-exercise spirometry showed a significant drop in his FEV1, confirming EIB. The treatment plan involved using a short-acting bronchodilator inhaler 15 minutes before exercise. Emotionally, Ishaan felt frustrated and anxious before the diagnosis, fearing a more serious condition and mourning his athletic identity. After diagnosis and starting treatment, he felt immense relief and empowerment. He can now play a full game with only minor symptoms, and his confidence on and off the field has been restored.