Adolescent Swimmers: Breathing Complaints and Prescription Asthma Medication Use and Misuse

This study investigated the incidence of asthma and breathing difficulties in a sample of 103 competitive adolescent swimmers. In addition, the use and potential misuse of common asthma medications as well as other prescription medication was examined. Data indicated that adolescent female swimmers experienced exercise-related breathing difficulties more frequently than male swimmers. Older swimmers not only swam more often and for greater yardage than younger swimmers, they also participated in more structured competitions than did younger swimmers. Breathing difficulty was positively correlated with increased practice demands (number and length of practice) and stopping practice early due to breathing difficulties. Age-related patterns in seeking and stealing medication from peers was also evident, and this risky health behavior was inversely related to swimming participation. Data are discussed in relation to implications for pediatric psychologists and pediatric health care providers.