Pathophysiological factors, benefits and recommendations in swimming for asthmatics

Abstract

Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways that can be induced by contact with chemical products, cigarette smoke, dry and cold environments or intense exercise. Swimming is recommended for people with asthma because it is a sport that helps to improve lung function. The aim of this study was to analyze the benefits and recommendations for swimming in children diagnosed with asthma. The methodology adopted was a bibliographical review of articles published in PUBMED in the last five years. The results of the studies showed that at least 13 countries researched the relationship between asthma and swimming in this investigated period (Poland, Turkey, Japan, France, Belgium, Finland, Norway, USA, Sweden, Brazil, China, Nigeria and Italy). Research has shown that swimming is beneficial for asthmatics, among the advantages it can be mentioned the improvements for the practitioner: 1) conditions of the respiratory and cardiovascular system, 2) quality of life and psychosocial, 3) well-being, 4) physical resistance, 5) child growth and development, and 6) reduction in asthma symptoms and clinical picture. The recommendations for the practice of swimming for asthmatics were related to: 1) maintaining the adequate amount of water purification products (with chlorine), 2) avoiding places in the pool that have dry and cold environments, 3) managing the air quality in the pool area and waiting room, 4) adequately prescribe and monitor water exercise 5) avoid excessive submersion/diving. It can be concluded that swimming is a sport that provides the asthmatic with a decrease in symptoms and an improvement in the clinical picture, as there is a decrease in the intensity, duration and frequency of bronchospasm crises, improving respiratory capacity and strengthening the respiratory muscles, in addition to providing better motor, psychological and affective-social development. However, the possible contraindication of swimming for asthmatics may come from inadequate facilities, swimming pool, medication, prescription and class control. Thus, it is suggested that there is always periodic monitoring of students by physicians and teachers/professionals able to provide adequate prescriptions, in addition to monitoring external factors that may affect asthmatics.