By Cab Camper
Asthma is a common respiratory condition affecting millions worldwide. An asthma attack can happen at any moment, often causing panic both for the person affected and for those around them. Knowing how to respond swiftly and effectively can make a world of difference. Whether the individual is a close friend, family member, or even a stranger, understanding the steps to take during an asthma attack can provide relief, prevent worsening symptoms, and help avert serious complications.
This guide covers essential actions to take when someone is experiencing an asthma attack, offering a calm and methodical approach to manage the situation effectively.
1. Recognize the Signs of an Asthma Attack
Before taking action, it’s essential to identify the symptoms of an asthma attack, which may vary in severity but commonly include:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing
- Persistent coughing, especially at night or during physical activity
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Anxiety or panic due to inability to breathe comfortably
Recognizing these signs early can help prevent a mild asthma attack from escalating. If the person is unable to speak in full sentences, has a bluish tint to their lips or fingertips, or appears extremely distressed, these are signs of a severe attack, and immediate intervention is crucial.
2. Stay Calm and Offer Reassurance
An asthma attack can be a frightening experience for the individual, as well as for those nearby. The first and foremost step is to stay calm and encourage the person to do the same. Anxiety can worsen symptoms, so keeping your tone gentle and composed is essential.
Reassure them by speaking calmly and encouraging them to focus on slow, steady breaths. If possible, ask them to sit in a comfortable position, ideally upright, as this helps open up the airways and can ease breathing.
3. Help Them Locate Their Reliever Inhaler
Most people with asthma carry a “reliever” or “rescue” inhaler, typically a blue inhaler that contains a fast-acting bronchodilator. This medication works by quickly relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
If the individual has their inhaler with them:
- Hand it to them and encourage them to use it right away. Standard guidance suggests two puffs, taken one at a time with a brief pause in between.
- If they have a spacer (a device that attaches to the inhaler to make it more effective), help them set it up as it improves the delivery of medication to the lungs.
If they don’t have their inhaler on hand, ask if someone nearby can retrieve it. Prompt access to their inhaler can make a dramatic difference in relieving their symptoms.
4. Guide Them Through Proper Inhaler Use
For inhalers to work effectively, they must be used properly. If the person appears panicked or unable to focus, guide them step-by-step:
- Ask them to shake the inhaler first.
- Instruct them to take a slow, deep breath in as they press down on the inhaler to release the medication.
- After taking a puff, they should hold their breath for about 10 seconds to allow the medicine to settle in their lungs before exhaling slowly.
Repeat as needed, generally up to four puffs, based on their comfort level and doctor’s instructions.
5. Encourage Controlled Breathing Techniques
Slow, controlled breathing can aid relaxation and help the medication take effect more quickly. Once they’ve used their inhaler, encourage them to:
- Breathe in slowly through their nose and out through their mouth.
- Try to take breaths that are deep but comfortable, avoiding hyperventilation which can exacerbate symptoms.
Controlled breathing helps alleviate the sense of panic and gives the bronchodilator time to work. Breathing exercises are also beneficial for managing asthma outside of attack situations, so those with asthma may already be familiar with these techniques.
6. Provide a Calm, Open Space
Environment plays a significant role during an asthma attack. If possible, move the person to a well-ventilated area, away from potential triggers that might be worsening the symptoms, such as smoke, dust, or strong odors.
If indoors, open windows or doors to ensure fresh air. If they are outdoors, ensure they are away from any known allergens, such as pollen or pollution. Clear any crowd around them as this can make the person feel more confined and worsen anxiety.
7. Monitor Their Response and Repeat Medication If Necessary
After they’ve used their inhaler, observe them for a few minutes to see if there is improvement. Often, the effects of the reliever inhaler take a few minutes to fully work. However, if they still seem to struggle or if symptoms persist after the first two puffs:
- Administer additional puffs as directed, typically up to 10 puffs in total, spaced out every minute or so.
- Be attentive to any signs of worsening, as this may indicate the need for emergency medical intervention.
8. Call for Emergency Assistance if Symptoms Persist
If the person’s symptoms don’t improve after 10 puffs, or if they show signs of severe distress, call emergency services immediately. Symptoms such as bluish lips or fingernails, extreme difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness require urgent medical attention.
When speaking to emergency responders, be clear about the individual’s condition, any medication they’ve taken, and their response. This information can help emergency personnel prepare the best course of action upon arrival.
9. Follow Up with Comfort and Reassurance
Once the immediate asthma attack subsides, the person may still feel fatigued or anxious. Offer a calm space to rest and recuperate, and encourage them to drink water if they feel able to.
After the attack, a follow-up visit to their doctor is often advisable, particularly if the attack was severe. This ensures any necessary adjustments to their asthma management plan or medications are made, helping prevent future attacks.
Preparing for Future Incidents
Knowing how to respond effectively to an asthma attack is crucial, but prevention and preparedness are equally essential. Encourage individuals with asthma to:
- Always carry their inhaler and spacer.
- Identify and avoid known asthma triggers.
- Discuss a comprehensive asthma action plan with their healthcare provider.
Asthma can be unpredictable, but with proper response techniques and a calm
