Introduction
Asthma is defined as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airway obstruction and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Asthma is a significant risk factor for unexplained death in young and healthy subjects, with most asthma-related deaths being reported as occurring with a sporting event.
When a student-athlete is diagnosed with any form of asthma, the student-athlete will need to fill out the Converse Athletic Department Asthma Emergency Action Plan. This form should be completed annually by the student-athlete. Signs and symptoms of an asthma episode include, but not limited to, wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, coughing, and increases in respiratory rate.
Metered Dose Inhaler
Inhaled medication is the most common way to get quick, short term relief of asthma symptoms. This can be administered through a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), MDI with a spacer, breath activated MDI, dry powder inhaler or nebulizer. Student-athletes are responsible for communicating the location of their MDI to the athletic trainer and their coach.