What to do in an asthma attack emergency

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes swelling of the airways which makes it difficult to breathe. On average, asthma results in the deaths of 10 Americans each day according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

While asthma medications taken regularly can help prevent daily symptoms and flare-ups or attacks, sometimes asthma attacks will still occur and these can be life-threatening.

Knowing what a severe asthma attack looks like, what to do when an asthma attack develops and when to seek help, could help save your life or the life of someone you know.

What does an asthma attack emergency look like?

An asthma attack can develop slowly over the course of several days or rapidly within minutes. Wheezing, coughing and breathlessness can worsen quickly. Young children may initially appear restless, unsettled and struggle to eat due to shortness of breath.

Asthma attacks that don’t respond to treatment can quickly turn into an emergency situation. The following are signs^* of a severe asthma attack and approaching respiratory system failure and require immediate medical attention:

• Struggling to breathe - severe shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Shallow breathing
• Wheezing or whistling when breathing in and out. It is an extreme emergency if you stop wheezing without your symptoms improving
• Chest tightness or a feeling of weight on your chest
• Being unable to complete a sentence without pausing for breathe
• Feeling confused, anxious or scared
• Bluish or gray (with darker complexions) lips or fingernails
• Symptoms which are not relieved by a rescue inhaler that usually works
• Hunched shoulders
• The area between the ribs and at the base of the throat sucks in and out with each breath

^{*Not all signs listed may be present during a severe asthma attack.}

What to do in an asthma attack emergency and when to seek help

If you have developed a written Asthma Action Plan with your healthcare provider then it will outline the specific steps you should take in an emergency.

However, if you or someone you’re with is experiencing the symptoms of a severe asthma attack listed above and you don’t have a plan then follow the 5 steps below.

5 step plan for an asthma emergency

How to prevent and avoid asthma attacks

Get an Asthma Action Plan

Asthma attacks are more common in people with poorly controlled asthma. Develop a written Asthma Action Plan with your healthcare provider to help keep your asthma under control. Your plan should include:

• The asthma medications you should take to prevent and relieve your asthma symptoms
• How to identify if your asthma symptoms are getting worse
• What to do in an asthma attack emergency

Make sure to always take your asthma medications as prescribed and keep a supply of the medications you need. Remember to review your Asthma Action Plan and the medications you are on with your healthcare provider from time to time to ensure they are still right for you. It’s also important to tell your family and friends how they can help you in an emergency.

Avoid your asthma triggers

Avoiding things that trigger your asthma symptoms can also help you to avoid asthma attacks. The most common asthma triggers include:

• Respiratory tract infections, such as colds, sinus infections and flu (influenza)
• Allergens, such as pollen, dust mites and animal dander and saliva (from birds, cats, dogs and other animals)
• Irritants, such as air pollution and smoke
• Exercise
• Strong emotions, such as stress or anxiety

Strong odors, mold, pests, changes in the weather, and certain foods and medication (such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen) can also trigger asthma symptoms.

Bottom line

Controlling your asthma to help avoid severe asthma attacks is the best way to prevent an asthma attack emergency from developing. Develop an Asthma Action Plan with your healthcare provider and try to avoid things that trigger your asthma symptoms.

If an asthma attack emergency develops then follow your Asthma Action Plan or the 5 steps above. Do not wait to seek medical attention if your rescue inhaler is not working. Call 911 or go straight to the emergency room for help.