Bronchospasm: What It Is, Symptoms, and How Omega-3 Can Help You
Imagine running, cycling, or swimming and suddenly feeling out of breath. This is what it feels like to have bronchospasm.
Omega-3s, essential fatty acids for the body's health, can be an effective solution to improve lung function.
What is bronchospasm? Causes
Simply put, it is a temporary narrowing of the bronchi caused by an involuntary contraction of the bronchial smooth muscle and irritation of the surrounding tissues. This narrowing complicates breathing, especially during or after physical activity.
The main causes are:
- Increased respiratory activity during physical exertion.
- Exposure to allergens or irritants.
- Inhalation of bacteria, viruses, or toxic substances present in the air.
- Excessive breathing of dry or cold air.
Needless to say, for athletes and sports enthusiasts, this condition can be particularly insidious.
Warning signs: symptoms of bronchospasm
Recognizing the symptoms is essential, so let’s immediately see the most common ones:
- Sudden difficulty breathing.
- Sensation of chest tightness.
- Dry and persistent cough.
- Wheezing.
- Rapid fatigue during exercise.
If you notice these symptoms, especially during or after physical activity, it is important to consult your doctor.
Bronchospasm and Omega-3: proven benefits
A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine revealed that taking Omega-3 can help reduce exercise-induced bronchospasm. Omega-3s play a key role in:
- Reducing airway inflammation.
- Improving lung function.
- Relieving bronchospasm symptoms.
And these benefits are also observable in those suffering from asthma or chronic bronchitis.
How to include Omega-3 in your diet
Now that you know how beneficial they can be, let's see how you can ensure you get enough Omega-3 to alleviate discomfort caused by inflammation.
Here are some options:
- Include foods rich in Omega-3 in your diet, such as fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, herring, tuna, halibut, swordfish, trout), cereals, legumes, and oilseeds (chia, flaxseed).
- Consider using fish oil supplements: if your diet does not allow sufficient Omega-3 intake, supplements can be an effective alternative.
