The asthmatic child and sport practice.

Three pathologies can be induced by exercise in asthmatic children : anaphy laxis, urticaria, asthma. Exercise induced anaphylaxis and urticaria are ra re conditions, Exercise induced asthma can be prevented by treatment such a s cromolyn sodium, nedocromil, beta 2 agonists or a combination of two of t hese products. Re-adaptation programmes can be set up to raise the point of outbreak of bronchospasm. Despite these possible exercise induced patholog ies, regular exercise has many advantage for the asthmatic children (such a s improved well being, sociability and cardio-respiratory functions) and mu st be encouraged. The choice of sport activities must be envisaged with the child, taking into account the various aspects of prevention of exercise i nduced pathologies. (C) 1999 Elsevier, Paris.