Risk factors

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction is more likely to occur in:

• People with asthma. About 90% of people with asthma have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. However, the condition can occur in people without asthma too.
• Elite athletes. Although anyone can have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, it's more common in high-level athletes.

Factors that can increase the risk of the condition or act as triggers include:

• Cold air
• Dry air
• Air pollution
• Chlorine in swimming pools
• Chemicals from ice cleaning equipment
• Activities with extended periods of deep breathing, such as long-distance running, swimming or soccer