Hlaupabóla

Hlaupabóla, also known as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), is a temporary narrowing of the airways that occurs during or after strenuous physical activity. It is often mistaken for asthma, and in many cases, individuals with asthma also experience EIB. However, EIB can also occur in people without a diagnosed history of asthma.

The symptoms of hlaupabóla typically manifest during exercise and may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. These symptoms usually appear 5 to 15 minutes after starting exercise and may persist for a period after activity ceases. The exact cause of EIB is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the cooling and drying of the airways during rapid breathing, which triggers the release of inflammatory mediators that cause bronchoconstriction.

Factors that can exacerbate EIB include cold, dry air, air pollution, and certain allergens. Diagnosis is often made based on a history of exercise-related respiratory symptoms and can be confirmed with a bronchial provocation test, such as a treadmill exercise challenge or a methacholine challenge.

Treatment for hlaupabóla focuses on preventing and managing symptoms. Short-acting beta-agonists, taken 15-20 minutes before exercise, are commonly prescribed to open the airways. In some cases, long-acting medications or other types of inhalers may be recommended for daily use. Warm-up and cool-down periods during exercise can also help. While EIB can be a concern for athletes, with proper management, most individuals can continue to participate in physical activities.