Onset | Rapid (within seconds), during peak exercise | Rapid (within minutes), shortly following the termination of exercise |
Duration | Regresses within few minutes of rest | Resolves typically within 30 minutes |
Inhaled drug therapy | Largely ineffective, inhaled anticholinergic may reduce symptoms | Beta-2 agonist usually effective |
Breathing characteristics | Monophonic inspiratory wheeze, prolonged inspiratory phase | Monophonic expiratory wheeze, prolonged expiratory phase |
Regional limitation | Upper airways, neck | Lower airways, chest |
Symptoms | Dyspnoea, wheeze, stridor, cough, throat/chest tightness, dysphonia | Dyspnoea, wheeze, cough, chest tightness |
Precipitating factors/similar symptoms | Exercise, emotional stress, cold air, strong odours | Exercise, infections, cold air, allergies, stress |