How to Treat an Asthma Attack (with Pictures)

2024 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 09:13

Asthma is an airway disorder caused by inflammation and obstruction of the bronchi, the passages that allow the lungs to inhale and exhale air. Research conducted in the United States in 2009 by the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology found that one in 12 people had been diagnosed with asthma, while in 2001 it was one in 14. During an asthma attack, the muscles that surrounding the bronchi contract and swell, thus narrowing the airways and making breathing more difficult. Typical triggers for an asthma attack are exposure to allergens (such as grass, trees, pollen, etc.), airborne irritants (such as smoke or pungent odors), disease (such as the flu), stress, extreme weather conditions (such as scorching heat) or physical exertion from activities such as training. It is essential to learn to recognize the circumstances that cause an asthma attack and to know what to do, as it can save a life.

Steps

Part 1 of 4: Analyzing the Situation

Step 1. Recognize "early" symptoms

People with chronic asthma sometimes have wheezing, suffer from wheezing, and need to use medications to control symptoms. An acute attack, on the other hand, is different because it manifests itself with several severe symptoms that last longer and require immediate medical attention. Among the warning symptoms of an attack you can note:

• Itchy neck.
• Feeling irritable or short-tempered.
• Feeling nervous.
• Sense of exhaustion.
• Heavy dark circles.

Step 2. Know when an asthma attack is about to start

Keep in mind that this experience can escalate to the point of life-threatening the victim and prompt medical intervention is required. It is vital to be able to recognize the symptoms so that treatment can begin as soon as possible. Although many symptoms and signs vary depending on the person affected, the main ones are:

• Breathing is wheezing or whistling. In most cases, the whistle is audible in the exhalation phase although, at times, it is also possible to hear it during inhalation.
• Cough. Many patients tend to cough in an attempt to clear the airways and bring more oxygen to the lungs. This symptom is more severe at night.
• Shortness of breath. People suffering from asthma attacks often complain of this symptom. They tend to take shallow breaths that seem shorter than normal.
• Sense of pressure in the chest. The attacks are often accompanied by a squeezing sensation in the chest or a form of pain on the right or left side.
• Low peak expiratory flow (PEF) detections. If the patient uses a peak flow meter, a small device that measures the maximum expiratory rate to monitor the ability to expel air, and the results show small values (between 50% and 79% of normal values), it means that an asthma attack is about to worsen.

Step 3. Recognize the symptoms of asthma in children

Young patients often experience the same symptoms as adults, such as wheezing, wheezing or whistling when breathing, wheezing, and chest pain or pressure.

• Short, rapid breaths are quite common in children with asthma.
• Children may also have intercostal "retraction". You may notice that, with each breath, the neck contracts, the belly swells, or the ribs become more noticeable in an attempt to take in as much air as possible.
• In some children, the only symptom that occurs during an asthma attack is a chronic cough.
• In other cases, symptoms are limited to coughing, which worsens in the presence of a viral infection or during sleep.

Step 4. Analyze the specific situation

Try to understand what is happening, so as to assess whether it is appropriate to see a doctor immediately and what type of intervention can be implemented at the moment. If the person has mild symptoms, they can use their regular asthma medication, which should be effective immediately. People who have more difficulties, on the other hand, should go to the emergency room without delay. When the asthma attack is severe you need to call the ambulance right away or ask someone nearby to do so before proceeding with treatment. Learn to distinguish the different situations that may arise:

• People who suffer from asthma and need their own medication but do not require immediate medical attention:

  • They have a little wheezing, but they don't seem particularly distressed.
  • They do a few coughs to clear the airways and get more air.
  • They have some breathing difficulties but are able to talk and walk.
  • They show no particular anxiety or difficulty.
  • They are able to tell you they have an asthma attack and show you where their medication is.

• People who have a serious problem and who need to go to the emergency room immediately:

  • They have a pale appearance or even the lips or fingers are bluish in color.
  • They have the same symptoms as described above, but more intense and more severe.
  • They have to actively contract their chest muscles to breathe.
  • They suffer from severe shortness of breath and as a result their breathing becomes wheezy and short.
  • They emit a clear hiss and whistle when inhaling or exhaling.
  • They experience considerable anxiety due to the situation.
  • They may feel confused or less responsive than usual.
  • They have difficulty walking or speaking due to shortness of breath.
  • They have persistent symptoms.

  Part 2 of 4: Coping with Your Own Asthma Attack

  

  Step 1. Plan an action plan

  Once you have been diagnosed with this disorder, you need to set up an action plan with your allergist or pulmonologist. Basically, it's about establishing point-by-point everything you need to do when an acute asthma attack occurs. It should be written on paper and you should also write down the emergency services phone and the numbers of friends and family who are willing and able to take you to the hospital in case of need.

  • When your problem is confirmed by an official diagnosis, you should ask the doctor to tell you about the symptoms of worsening asthma and what to do when an attack is in its acute phase (e.g. take medication, go to the emergency room and so on).
  • Make sure you are familiar with how the inhaler medication works.
  • Write the plan in writing and always carry it with you.

  

  Step 2. Stay away from the factors that can trigger an asthma crisis

  Generally, remember that preventing symptoms is always the best way to manage and treat this disorder. If you know the factors or elements that can cause you to have an attack (such as the presence of pet hair or an excessively hot or cold climate), you can try to avoid exposure if possible.

  

  Step 3. Get a prescription for an inhaler from your doctor

  There are two different types of emergency medications: a metered-dose aerosol inhaler (MDI) or a dry powder inhaler (DPI).

  • The pre-dosed aerosol is the most widespread. It is a small device containing the active ingredient which is sprayed directly into the lungs. It can be used alone or with a breathing chamber ("spacer") that separates the mouth from the inhaler; this additional accessory allows you to breathe normally during the introduction of the drug and facilitates better absorption of the active ingredient in the lungs.
  • The DPI inhaler delivers the dry powder drug, without the addition of a propellant. To inhale this drug you need to take a quick, deep breath, which can sometimes be difficult during an asthma attack and for this reason it is less common than the standard MDI model.
  • Regardless of which inhaler you have been prescribed, make sure you always carry it with you.

  

  Step 4. Use the MDI

  Keep in mind that when you have an asthma attack you should only use an inhaler containing an emergency medication, a bronchodilator (such as salbutamol), and not corticosteroid medications or long-acting beta-2 agonist bronchodilators. Before using it, shake the device for five seconds to mix the medication.

  • Before using the inhaler, let as much air out of your lungs as possible.
  • Lift your chin and close your lips tightly around the spacer chamber of the device or the base of the inhaler.
  • If you are using the spacer chamber, breathe normally and slowly as you inhale the medication. With your regular inhaler, on the other hand, take an inhale and squeeze the inhaler once.
  • Keep inhaling until you can no longer take in air.
  • Hold your breath for 10 seconds and repeat at least once, but even more often if necessary, waiting at least a minute between applications. Always stick to the guidelines set out in the treatment plan.

  

  Step 5. Use the DPI

  There are several models on the market, which vary according to the manufacturer, so you must strictly follow the specific instructions of each product before using it.

  • Expel as much air as possible.
  • Close your lips tightly around the device and inhale strongly until you feel your lungs filling with air.
  • Hold your breath for 10 seconds.
  • Remove the inhaler from your mouth and exhale slowly.
  • If you have been prescribed more than one dose, repeat the procedure after one minute.

  

  Step 6. Recognize when the situation becomes an emergency

  If your asthma symptoms get worse even after taking the drug, you need to go to the hospital for immediate help. If you can call an ambulance, do it without wasting time. However, if your breathing becomes very labored and you are unable to speak clearly, ask someone, such as a friend, family member, or passerby, to call emergency services for you.

  A well-written action plan must also include the telephone number of the emergency service. In addition, your doctor will likely have also helped you recognize when symptoms are getting worse and when to seek immediate help so that you can receive prompt treatment. Call the emergency number you provided in your plan if your asthma attack doesn't go away with medication within a few minutes

  

  Step 7. Rest while you wait for help

  Sit down and rest when awaiting medical attention. Some asthmatics find it helpful to sit in the "tripod" position, stretched forward with the hands on the knees, as this can relieve pressure on the diaphragm.

  • Try not to get upset. If you start to get anxious, you can aggravate the symptoms.
  • Ask someone nearby to stand by to help you stay calm while help arrives.

  Part 3 of 4: Helping other People

  

  Step 1. Help another person by finding a comfortable position

  Many people who suffer from an asthma attack are more comfortable sitting, rather than standing or lying down. Have the patient stand with their back straight to facilitate lung expansion and improve breathing. Let him lean forward slightly towards you or a chair for support. Some people find it comfortable to take the "tripod" position, leaning forward with the hands on the knees, to relieve pressure on the diaphragm.

  • Keep in mind that asthma can get worse with anxiety, but this is not a factor that can cause it. This means that during an attack the person reacts much better and overcomes the moment sooner if he remains calm. Anxiety releases cortisol in the body, which constricts the bronchioles, the passages through which air passes to reach the alveoli of the lungs once it enters the nose or mouth.
  • It is important that you maintain a calm and reassuring attitude, so that you can help the patient to remain calm as well.

  

  Step 2. Ask the patient calmly if he is suffering from an asthma attack

  Even if he can't verbally respond to you due to shortness of breath or cough, he can still nod his head or point you to your action plan or inhaler with medication.

  Ask him if he has written the action plan for times of emergency. Some people who are prepared for asthma attacks should always carry a list of things to do. If this is also present, take it and help the patient with the procedure

  

  Step 3. Remove all possible factors that could trigger the attack from the area

  Asthma can often be aggravated by elements or allergens present in the surrounding environment. Ask the person if there is any factor in the immediate vicinity that is causing an attack, and if the answer is yes, immediately remove the person or element responsible (such as pollen or some environmental condition).

  • Animals
  • Smoke
  • Pollen
  • Humidity or cold weather

  

  Step 4. Inform the individual that you are looking for their inhaler

  Do this to calm him down and reassure him that you are helping him and that you don't want to hinder him.

  • Women typically keep it inside their handbag, while men tend to just keep it in their pocket.
  • Some asthmatics, especially children or the elderly, often have a clear plastic tube called a spacer that is placed on the inhaler. This device allows the drug to enter the mouth with less force, making it easier to inhale.
  • Children and the elderly who often suffer from asthma attacks also have a nebulizer, which allows the drug to enter the mouth through a mouthpiece or mask. It is quite a simple tool and allows the patient to breathe normally, so it is ideal for both young and old alike, although it is a bit bulkier than inhalers and must be plugged into an electrical outlet to work..
  • If the patient does not have an inhaler with him, you must call an ambulance, especially if the victim is a child or an elderly person. If an asthma attack occurs that cannot be treated with an inhaler, there is a risk of asphyxiation.

  

  Step 5. Prepare the subject to inhale the drug through the device

  If his head is resting down, lift his upper body momentarily.

  • If your MDI inhaler has the spacer, attach it to the device after shaking it and remove the cap from the mouthpiece.
  • Help the victim recline their head if necessary.
  • Tell them to exhale as much air as possible before using the inhaler.
  • Allow her to administer the drug herself. The active ingredient must be administered at specific times, so let the victim control the whole process. If necessary, you can help her support and rest the device or spacer against her lips.
  • Most asthmatics pause for a minute or two between inhalations.

  

  Step 6. Call the ambulance

  Monitor the victim until help arrives.

  • Even if the person seems to improve after inhaling the drug, it is best to see doctors or paramedics anyway. If you don't want to go to the hospital, make sure you make this decision anyway after you have all the necessary information about your health.
  • Continue to help him use the inhaler if necessary; even if the asthma attack does not decrease, the drug still prevents the situation from worsening by relaxing and clearing the airways a little.

  Part 4 of 4: Treating an Asthma Attack without Inhaler

  

  Step 1. Call the emergency services

  If you or another person does not have an inhaler, it is extremely important to call an ambulance. While waiting for the doctors to arrive, you can still put in place some procedures. However, you should always follow the advice given on the phone when calling for help.

  

  Step 2. Take a hot shower

  If you are at home, take a shower or a warm bath, in order to create a favorable environment in the room thanks to the humidity that is created.

  

  Step 3. Practice breathing exercises

  Many people get anxious or panicked during an asthma attack, but this way they speed up their breathing. However, anxiety makes the situation worse, as it limits the amount of oxygen that enters the lungs. To avoid this, you need to breathe mindfully. Inhale through your nose for a count of 4 and then exhale for a count of 6.

  Try to curl your lips as you exhale to help slow down the release of air and keep the airways open for a longer period

  

  Step 4. Drink caffeinated beverages

  The chemical structure of this element is similar to asthma medications, so a small amount of coffee or beverage that contains caffeine can help relax the airways and reduce the problem.

  The active ingredient in this case is theophylline, which helps prevent and treat dyspnea, shortness of breath and chest pressure. Keep in mind that the theophylline present in the drink is certainly not enough to counter the asthma attack, but it is certainly a valid help

  

  Step 5. Take a drug normally found in the home

  Some commonly used emergency medications can relieve symptoms of this condition, although they should never be taken as a substitute for medical assistance.

  • Take a fast-acting antihistamine (anti-allergic drug) if you think your asthma is caused by a reaction to some allergen. This could be the case, for example, if you have been outdoors all day with a lot of pollen. The main antihistamines are: Allegra-D, Benadryl, Dimetane, Clarityn, Alavert, Trimeton and Zyrtec, just to name a few. If you prefer to take natural products, echinacea, ginger, chamomile and saffron are all natural antihistamines. If you can find any tea that contains these ingredients, it is certainly a great help in relieving some symptoms, even if the effect of antihistamines, in general, is very minimal.
  • Take over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine such as Sudafed. It is a nasal decongestant, but it can be helpful during an asthma attack if an inhaler is not available because it helps open the bronchioles. The best way to take it is to break the tablet, pulverize it with a mortar and drink it dissolved in hot water or tea to avoid the risk of suffocation. Keep in mind that it can take 15-30 minutes for it to take effect; also keep in mind that pseudoephedrine can speed up the heart rate and increase blood pressure.

  Advice

  • Symptoms of asthma, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pressure, can resolve with drug inhalations. In some cases, they can even disappear on their own.
  • If you can follow your action plan as soon as you start experiencing symptoms, you can often prevent the problem from escalating.
  • Make sure your inhaler and any other asthma medications have not expired. If you can, contact your doctor if you need a new prescription before the drug is finished.
  • If you are treating your own asthma attack, even if it is mild, but it shows no signs of improvement, you should see your doctor to prevent it from getting worse. He may prescribe oral steroids to stop the attack.

  Warnings

  • There are no specific over-the-counter medications for the treatment of asthma. Anyone diagnosed with this disorder should have a contingency plan and carry their inhaler with them at all times.
  • If you are unsure what to do, call the ambulance immediately.
  • Asthma can be life-threatening. If you or another asthmatic person cannot relieve symptoms with an inhaler within minutes, you should call the emergency services and wait for them to intervene.