Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction in Athletes: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.63.73477Keywords
exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, exercise-induced asthma, EIB, athletes, elite athletes, sports, cross-county skiingAbstract
Aim: This narrative review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and clinical management of EIB in elite competitors.
Material and methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar was conducted, analyzing systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and consensus statements (e.g., IOC, Polish Society of Allergology) focused on elite endurance and winter sports.
Results: EIB prevalence in elite athletes (10–50%) significantly exceeds that of the general population (5–10%), peaking in winter sports. This distinct "sports-related asthma" phenotype involves neutrophilic inflammation from repetitive epithelial injury. Since symptom-based diagnosis is unreliable, objective testing like Eucapnic Voluntary Hyperpnea (EVH) is required. Management combining inhaled corticosteroids, beta2-agonists, and non-pharmacological strategies (e.g., heat-moisture exchangers) ensures effective control and WADA compliance.
Conclusions: EIB is a frequently underdiagnosed concern in elite sports. Objective screening and tailored therapies are essential to protect athletes' respiratory health and performance integrity.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Jan Damian, Weronika Kaczmarek, Magdalena Markiewicz-Zahorski, Julia Jaszczyńska, Kamil Pawelkiewicz, Filip Kęska, Tomasz Kałużny, Maria Miachalska, Zoja Goti, Dawid Stępień, Małgorzata Pietrzyk
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