What to do with asthma attack

Asthma Attack

Asthma attack is a serious medical condition and the therapy needs to be administered promptly so that the symptoms of the attack can be successfully overcome.

The attack starts with the feeling of tightness in the chest, cough and wheezing. The patient is anxious, nervous and restless. All of the previously mentioned occur right before the actual attack. The best prevention is regular taking of the prescribed medications. However, in some patients asthma attack can occur in spite of medications. During the attack the patients are advised to stay as calm as possible since the stress and anxiety can only make the situation worse.

Asthma Attack- How to Act

The first thing patients should do is to leave the place where they have been exposed to allergens that have triggered the attack. There is a variety of triggers including plants, animals, perfumes and even smoking. Then the patients should use the inhaler which will help in opening of the airways. Inhalers which contain Albuterol can be rather suitable for asthma attack. Inhalations should be repeated in certain periods of time until the condition improves.

The patient must relax and try not to worry. If the clothes are tight the patient should remove it.

The symptoms and signs of the attack will withdraw within 5 to 8 minutes in most of the cases. However, if they do not disappear or even worsen in that period of time the patient is advised to call 911 immediately without any delay. Until the medical help arrives the patient is advised to continue with inhalations.

It is important to recognize the symptoms and signs of asthma attack which require doctor's help and eventual hospitalization. These include continuous coughing, severe difficulties with breathing, tachypnea, pale skin accompanied by shortness of breath, inability to talk in complete sentences, and peripheral cyanosis (blue lips and fingertips). The doctors will apply certain medications intravenously and they will eventually stop the attack. If the patient is cyanotic he/ she will be administered oxygen.

Prevention of Asthma Attacks

The best way to prevent asthma attack is to stay away from the potential allergens and other triggers of the attack. Regular taking of the prescribed medications is also necessary. If asthma cannot be brought under control with certain medications the doctor will have to reconsider other medications or even a combination of medications. Asthma attack can occur in those patient whose disease is not properly brought under control. And finally, all the patients who are suffering from asthma have to go for regular check-ups.