i've had EIA off and on for years, and finally got it under control. Had it not been under control, I could never race. There have been many times I've used my inhaler 16 times in less than an hour, twice I've had a ambulance pick me up. Last 'event' (circa 2006) was on a group ride. Couldn't breathe, and had two guys babysitting me after I started hyperventilating. Eventually, i shooed them off and called an ambulance. I was in the middle of nowhere (Lytle Creek) and there was no way I could ride a bike upright. After that, I didn't touch group riding for years, more out of pride than anything.
A few months ago I finally hit rock bottom and tried several alternative therapy methods, which has reduced my asthma about 80%. Allergy reduction, keeping humidity under 40%, and controlled breathing have worked wonders. I still use the inhaler, but now its more to clear an inconvienence than something that puts me in fear.