How to Identify an Asthma Attack and What to Do Next

Asthma attacks can be life-threatening. However, with the right treatment approach, you can manage it effectively. To receive quick relief from asthma attacks, one must understand the condition, know the symptoms, and have knowledge about how to manage them. Hence, in this blog post, we are going to cover asthma attack symptoms and early signs to watch out for along with the next steps to take for facilitating recovery.

Asthma Attack: What It Is?

Asthma attack (asthma flare-up or exacerbation of asthma) is characterised by sudden worsening of symptoms associated with asthma. During an attack, the patient experiences difficulty in breathing as the muscles in their airways tighten and constrict.  Other contributing factors that accompany airway constriction and cause uncomfortable symptoms are inflammation and an increase in mucus in the airways.

Asthma attacks are typically managed by following an asthma action plan suggested by a doctor. People who do not have a plan in place must immediately seek medical care if they get an asthma attack.

Asthma Attack Causes

An asthma attack can be caused by multiple factors. Common triggers that lead to an asthma attack are:

• Strenuous exercise
• Weather conditions
• Strong emotional reactions
• Illnesses like flu and sinusitis
• Allergens like pollen, dust, and animal dander
• Irritants such as strong odours, smoke, and chemical fumes

Early Signs of an Asthma Attack

Before one gets full-blown asthma symptoms, the body usually gives some subtle early signs that may indicate an impending asthma attack. Knowing and identifying these signs can help patients take immediate action and prevent a possible attack. Signs you may notice include:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing frequently
• Mood changes
• Difficulty sleeping
• Cold or allergy symptoms
• Feeling weak and tired during physical activity

Asthma Attack Symptoms

Apart from the early signs, take note of the other symptoms that appear during an asthma attack. These include:

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Trouble breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Chest tightness
• Anxiety
• Pale face
• Sweating
• Bluish lips
• Inability to talk properly

Patients with asthma should remember that even if the symptoms appear mild, they must see a doctor or follow it up with treatment suggested by their doctor (if they already have a diagnosis). This helps in preventing severe asthma episodes in the future.

What to Do Next: First Aid and Emergency Asthma Attack Treatment

Asthma First Aid Steps

If you or anyone you know is having an asthma attack, take the following first aid steps:

1. Stay calm and reassure yourself or the concerned person that there is nothing to worry about.

2. Sit upright, as this is the best position for an asthma attack.

3. Use the inhaler for asthma attack, as suggested in your asthma action plan:

• Shake the inhaler and attach it to the spacer.
• Breathe out and place your mouth over the mouthpiece of the spacer.
• Press once to release one puff of the medication and slowly breathe in the medication.
• Hold your breath for 10 seconds.
• Take four puffs of the inhaler in all. Wait for one minute before taking each puff.
• After taking four puffs, wait and watch for 4 minutes.
• If you still have trouble breathing, take four more puffs as taken previously. Wait for 1 minute between puffs.
• If there is still no relief, take 4-8 puffs every 20 minutes till emergency help arrives. This can be done for up to 4 hours.

If your symptoms get better and you are able to breathe well after taking the first aid and following your asthma action plan, it is still important to see your doctor the same day, if possible, or the next day. However, if first aid does not help and you do visit the emergency room, you will likely be treated with one or more of the following treatments to normalise your breathing.

Emergency Treatment

• Quick relief medications: Medications like albuterol or levalbuterol may be given to open constricted airways.
• Oxygen: You may be given oxygen via a tube in the nose to replenish oxygen in your blood.
• Corticosteroids: These may be given to control inflammation in the airways.
• Ventilation: This is provided in case the patient is in critical condition and is unable to breathe on their own.

Final Thoughts

An asthma attack is a serious occurrence that requires immediate action. Though many asthma attacks are mild and can be managed if you follow your asthma action plan properly, there can be times when such attacks can turn fatal. So, it is important to know your triggers and take steps to control your asthma. Medications like Budecort Respules often form a part of asthma treatment plans as they help relax airway muscles and reduce inflammation.

The best way to ensure a healthy life with asthma is to follow your doctor’s advice religiously so you can manage your condition and prevent asthma attacks.

FAQs

How long do asthma attacks last?

Asthma attacks can last from a few minutes to a few hours or even days. It all depends on how severe the asthma attack is. Mild cases get better in a few minutes, whereas severe cases requiring hospitalisation may continue for hours or days.

Can people with asthma live long?

Asthma patients can live a long life if they manage their condition with the right treatment, make healthy lifestyle changes, and avoid triggers that cause the condition.

What drink is good for asthma?

Drinks like tea, coffee, milk (with vitamin D), water, tomato juice, and orange juice can provide relief from asthma symptoms by reducing constriction of the airways.

Can asthma recover by itself?

Once you have asthma, it doesn’t get better on its own. However, one can manage it with treatment and lifestyle changes. Some children may outgrow their asthma symptoms as they grow old. Even some adults may notice fewer symptoms with time. But this does not happen with everyone.

Can asthma be cured permanently?

Asthma cannot be cured permanently, but its symptoms can be managed with the right treatment. So much so that symptoms may become negligible.

How common are asthma attack deaths?

Asthma-related deaths are quite common in India. Nearly 2,00,000 people die every year due to the condition, and these deaths account for 46% of asthma deaths occurring globally.

How long does it take to die from an asthma attack?

Slow-onset asthma attacks develop gradually, causing death in hours or days. Hence, people have time to seek treatment. However, sudden-onset asthma attacks worsen quickly and death may occur in a few minutes.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.