Tips for hiking with asthma

October 9, 2023

Is it safe to hike with asthma? Experiencing the splendor of nature through hiking is just as enjoyable for those with asthma. However, managing asthma symptoms takes some additional planning and precautions when heading out on trails. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, weather triggers, altitude changes, and distance from care require preparation to prevent exacerbating your asthma. With the right strategies for medication, hydration, pack contents, and pacing, asthmatics can adventure on the trail comfortably and safely.

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Understanding Exercise-Induced Asthma

The first step to hiking with asthma is understanding exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), which causes symptoms like wheezing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath provoked by physical activity. Causes include:

Rapid breathing – Increases loss of heat and moisture from airways, triggering narrowing.
Airway irritation – From dust, air pollution, or cold, dry air. Wearing a face cover can reduce triggers entering the airways.
Increased blood flow – Raising heart rate increases oxygen demand faster than the lungs can supply, which causes airway constriction.

Pace yourself on ascents, allow longer warmups, and maintain sufficient fitness levels to prevent EIB symptoms on the trail.

Using Controller and Rescue Medications

Work closely with your doctor to use long-term control and quick-relief medications that enable hiking:

Inhaled corticosteroids – Controller medications used daily to reduce airway inflammation and sensitivity to triggers. Don’t skip daily even when feeling well.
Short-acting bronchodilators – Rescue inhalers like albuterol relax airway muscles during flare-ups, providing quick symptom relief. Carry it on hikes.
Oral leukotriene modifiers – Block inflammatory chemicals and can provide added EIB protection for active lifestyles.
Biologics – Newer injected antibodies like Xolair work for those with hard-to-control asthma.

Strict adherence to your treatment regimen keeps chronic inflammation in check and airways open. Don’t just rely on rescue inhalers.

What to Pack When Hiking with Asthma

In addition to the rescue inhaler, medications, and any regular hiking gear, pack:

Face cover – Protects airways from cold, dust, or pollen. Use a snug-fitting mask or neck gaiter.
Peak flow meter – Measures airflow obstruction. Establish your target personal best range.
Allergy medication – If pollen or dust mites are a trigger, bring antihistamines.
CamelBak or water system – Staying hydrated keeps airways lubricated and breathing efficient.
Handkerchief – Reduce irritation by covering the nose and mouth when exerting hard.
Extra batteries – For electronics, peak flow meter, etc. in case rescue is delayed.
Emergency oxygen – A doctor may prescribe a portable oxygen canister based on your severity.

Having backup asthma tools and a way to monitor obstruction provides confidence in case of exacerbation far from help.

Picking Appropriate Hiking Routes

Choose trails with:

Gradual elevation gains – Sharp uphill climbs can trigger shortness of breath. Take inclines slowly.
Lower altitude if that’s a trigger – Acclimatize for a few days before hitting higher elevation hikes if needed.
Partially shaded – Direct sun and heat worsen wheezing. Seek tree cover.
Limited pollen – Avoid heavily wooded trails in spring/fall if seasonal allergies are a trigger.
No smoke or vehicle exhaust – Steer clear of routes that expose you to other respiratory irritants.

Starting on trails better suited to your specific triggers lets you assess exertion effects in safer contexts first.