Summary
Our review has revealed that EIB is under-diagnosed and under treated in
young athletes. An objective diagnosis of EIB should be based on
symptoms in a combination with a proper exercise challenge test, as
athletes who refrain from reporting symptoms experience a decline in
lung function performance after exercise.
Nonetheless, it is important to avoid over-diagnosing EIB, which is
usually followed by over- or under-treatment. Limited access to
relevant, provocation tests can contribute to a lack of awareness and
misdiagnosis of EIB, as asthma and other diseases produce similar
symptoms.
Appropriate treatment for the diagnosis of EIB in young athletes should
be associated with regular control visits.