The vital test that those starting sports should undergo

Özlü provided information regarding the lung tests that should be performed beforehand to avoid problems while exercising.

Pointing out that 2 percent of sudden deaths during sports are linked to lung diseases, Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü said, "Lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, structural disorders of the chest wall, and bronchiectasis can reduce exercise performance. In competitive sports in particular, serious problems, and even life-threatening situations, can arise."

"THOSE OF ADVANCED AGE SHOULD ALSO BE CAREFUL"

Noting that the degree of functional impairment is determined through respiratory tests, Prof. Dr. Özlü said, "For those starting or wishing to start amateur sports in competitive disciplines such as swimming, football, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, boxing, and athletics, being clinically evaluated for lung health and diseases and having their respiratory functions measured will be a safe step to avoid respiratory problems during or after sports. 

This is very important not only for young people but also for adults of advanced age who are going to start sports. Respiratory function tests are tests that are easy to apply, provide immediate results, and show the functional capacity of the lungs. It is a maneuver of taking a deep and powerful breath in and out. 

Except for infants and small children with whom communication cannot be established, respiratory tests can be performed on people of almost any age. Lung functions are evaluated with different respiratory function tests such as spirometric measurements, measurement of static and dynamic lung volumes, and diffusion measurement," he stated.

"THERE ARE ASTHMATIC ATHLETES WHO HAVE PLACED IN THE OLYMPICS"

Stating that avoiding necessary health checks by thinking, "If I am diagnosed with a disease like asthma, I cannot do sports," is a misconception, Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü expressed that even if a diagnosis is made, one can still do sports by following the physician's recommendations. Prof. Dr. Özlü said, "By following treatments and recommendations, even if you have a lung disease, you can still do your sports safely. There are asthmatic athletes who have placed in the Olympics," he said.

News Source: İHA