[baker23]

I run 5-6 days a week and am currently training for a marathon...Can keep a steady pace up until about 5 miles...maybe 5 1/2...around that time, my throat starts to close up...I have trouble swallowing and that effects my breathing because I mainly breathe through my mouth when I run...

My body is physically capable to run past this 5 1/2 miles because I've done it before, and I don't feel tired...I just can't seem to breathe right...anyone know what could be causing this and have any suggestions to manage it?

[Lakilaulea]

I'm not much of a runner anymore, but I used to *have to* run a lot while I was in the military. I remember when I first started running I had a hard time with my breathing and my drill instructor advised I breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth. The reason for this is you draw more oxygen in through your nasal passages than you do your throat. At least, that's what we were told. I'd draw in a deep breath over 4-5 steps and exhale over the next 4-5 steps. It really helped me get my breathing under control so I wasn't gasping for air. Plus, it took my concentration off my seemingly permanent shin splints LOL Maybe try that out? It worked for me; it might for you

[lm3898]

Is there a chance you have exercise induced asthma? I always take two puffs of an inhaler before I run...it's like the name says - only brought on by periods of exercise...

[alaskanlaughter]

if your throat is physically swelling shut, that is a serious and immediate cause for medical attention

difficulty breathing, getting enough air into your lungs, could be asthma

i've experienced both...your throat shutting is nothing to mess around with

[MadProfessor]

I had this a few times when running in moderately low temperatures. For me it was a matter of diet - too much fat and not enough iron - these two where altering my lungs in low temps after a while of running.

[GordonGirl16]

When I run, especially when it's cold, I build up a lot of mucus in my throat, and it does sometimes feel like my throat is closing and it's hard to swallow. It's a little gross, but if you're running outside try spitting - it helps me a lot.

[Kscott]

Originally Posted by baker23

I run 5-6 days a week and am currently training for a marathon...Can keep a steady pace up until about 5 miles...maybe 5 1/2...around that time, my throat starts to close up...I have trouble swallowing and that effects my breathing because I mainly breathe through my mouth when I run...

My body is physically capable to run past this 5 1/2 miles because I've done it before, and I don't feel tired...I just can't seem to breathe right...anyone know what could be causing this and have any suggestions to manage it?

You sound like what my daughter goes through. She too is a runner--and she starts closing up after a couple of miles. She went to the doctor and they diagnosed her with exercise induced asthma. Not a problem they gave her an inhaler--just to use right before she runs, and she no longer has a problem with it. Note: that they don't classify this as regular asthma--and she breaths just fine normally--it's only when she exercises that it comes on.

[RavenWolf]

I have to agree...it sound likes exercise induced asthma. Please get checked out by a doctor.

Sorry you are having this difficulty

[PatLib]

It could also be a mix of dehydration and not getting enough electrolytes. Try drinking a Smart Water maybe. Obviously, I don't recommend Gatorade because of the empty calories.

But I agree you should see a doctor, that sounds super scary.