Variations in Inflammatory Cells and IL-6 in Long-Distance Runners Susceptible to Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm and Previously Treated with Salbutamol

Abstract

Background: Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm (EIB) is an inflammatory condition characterized by severe airway constriction following the mobilization of inflammatory cells and interleukin-6 (IL-6). When severe, EIB can require the use of pressurized salbutamol to treat athletes. This study investigated the nature of the systemic changes in inflammatory cells and post-exercise IL-6 concentrations after salbutamol treatment in EIB-susceptible distance runners. Materials and Methods: This was an experimental study that enrolled 12 long-distance runners. In Session A, the participants completed a treadmill exercise test, and those who had a maximum expiratory volume per second (FEV1) that was decreased by at least 10% compared to their base value were placed in the EIB-susceptible group (EIB+) (n = 6). Those whose FEV1 did not meet this criterion were placed in the nonresponsive (EIB−) group (n = 6). Before the Session B exercise, athletes in the BIE+ group inhaled two puffs of salbutamol (EIB+ Salb), while their EIB− counterparts received no treatment. Spirometry was performed before and after the exercise using a Spirobank G portable spirometer. Blood samples were taken before, immediately after and 2 hours after the stress test. Results: The mean post-exercise FEV1 values were not significantly different (p > 0.05) between the EIB+ Salb group and the EIB− group. The systemic changes in inflammatory cells and IL-6 concentrations in the EIB+ runners after salbutamol treatment were similar to those observed in their EIB− counterparts. Conclusion: Salbutamol pretreatment improved the systemic immune status of EIB-susceptible athletes.