Hi Jina,

You make a good case for your child having exercise induced asthma (EIA). You can find a lot more information on this site about EIA. Swimming is one of the better exercises for people with asthma. The humidity and warm surroundings are good for the lungs. When this activity is not well tolerated further evaluation is needed.

First, the diagnosis must be confirmed. Other problems such as heart disease may sometimes cause the same symptoms. A thorough history and physical exam should be done to establish the diagnosis. Other tests such as a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) should be ordered. One of the most common causes of exercise induced asthma symptoms is poorly controlled chronic asthma. It is possible to have breathing problems confined to exercise, but also have poor lung function while at rest. The PFT identifies whether the lungs are working properly at the moment the test is done. A Peak Flow Meter may be helpful when used before and after exercise to measure peak flow rates.

Sometimes an EKG and echocardiogram are ordered if the diagnosis is not clear. These are tests which evaluate heart rhythm and function. Your doctor will provide a course of treatment after the evaluation.

Recommendation: Have your child evaluated by your family physician. Your doctor will decide if an allergist or lung specialist should be consulted.