Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs that results in the constriction of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness and coughing. Asthma attacks can happen unpredictably and can last for minutes or hours. When an asthma attack occurs, it can be scary and overwhelming, and it is important to know what to do. Here, we provide practical tips to help you manage an asthma attack, including recognising the signs and symptoms, using assistive devices, and seeking emergency care.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
One of the most important aspects of managing an asthma attack is recognizing when it is occurring. Knowing the symptoms of an asthma attack can help you take action promptly. Some of the signs and symptoms to look out for include:
• Difficulty breathing or a feeling of tightness in the chest
• Wheezing and shortness of breath
• Coughing, especially at night or in the early morning
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping due to coughing
• Changes in skin colour, such as turning pale, blue or grey.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to start managing your asthma attack right away.
Using Assistive Devices
When an asthma attack occurs, it is important to have the right tools and devices on hand to help manage the attack. There are a variety of assistive devices available, including:
•Inhaler: An inhaler is a device that can be used to quickly deliver medication that helps relax the airways during an asthma attack. Depending on the type of inhaler prescribed, it may be necessary to use a spacer or chamber to help deliver the medication.
•Nebulizer: A nebulizer is a device that vaporizes medication to help make it easier to breathe. It is usually used for severe asthma attacks and must be used in conjunction with a spacer or chamber.
•Salbutamol Puffer: A salbutamol puffer is a device that delivers a fast-acting medication to help relax the airways and make breathing easier. It is usually used for a severe asthma attack and must also be used with a spacer or chamber.
It is important to familiarize yourself with how to properly use these devices and to make sure you have them with you when you are experiencing symptoms of an asthma attack.
Seeking Emergency Care
If you are having difficulty breathing, or your asthma symptoms are not responding to treatment, it is important to seek emergency medical attention. Call 911 or go to your nearest hospital right away. Additionally, if your symptoms are worsening and you are having persistent chest tightness or difficulty speaking, it is important to seek immediate medical care.
It is also important to tell someone nearby when you are experiencing an asthma attack and to seek guidance from them if necessary.
Conclusion
Managing an asthma attack can be frightening, but it is possible to effectively manage the symptoms. Knowing the signs and symptoms to look out for and having the right assistive devices can help make it easier to deal with an asthma attack. Additionally, if your symptoms are persisting or worsening, it is important to seek emergency medical attention. Although asthma attacks cannot always be prevented, it is important to keep your doctor informed of your condition and to take your prescribed medications as directed.