An asthma attack occurs when the airways in the lungs narrow and swell, leading to difficulty breathing. This narrowing is often accompanied by increased mucus production, which further obstructs the airways. An asthma attack can be frightening, especially without an inhaler, the primary quick-relief treatment. However, immediate actions and techniques can help manage symptoms and provide temporary relief.
Recognizing an Asthma Attack and Initial Actions
Identifying the signs of an asthma attack is the first step toward managing it effectively. Common symptoms include persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness or pain. These symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly, may worsen at night or in the early morning, and a rapid heart rate can also occur.
Maintaining composure is important when an asthma attack begins, as panic can worsen breathing difficulties. Sit upright immediately, as this position helps open the airways and makes breathing less strenuous. Loosen any tight clothing around the neck or chest to reduce restriction. Focusing on steady breathing can also help calm the body and mind.
Breathing Techniques for Relief
Specific breathing techniques can help manage an asthma attack when an inhaler is unavailable. Pursed-lip breathing helps slow down breathing and ensures each breath is more effective by keeping airways open longer during exhalation. To perform this, inhale slowly through your nose with your mouth closed, then purse your lips as if to whistle, and exhale slowly through your pursed lips for a count at least twice as long as your inhalation. This technique can reduce shortness of breath and promote relaxation.
Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, focuses on using the diaphragm, the dome-shaped muscle below the lungs, for respiration rather than the chest. This technique strengthens the diaphragm, slows breathing, and can decrease the body’s oxygen needs. To practice, sit upright or lie on your back with knees bent, place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale slowly through your nose, ensuring only the hand on your stomach moves. Exhale slowly through your mouth, making the exhalation two to three times longer than the inhalation, while keeping your shoulders and neck relaxed.
The Buteyko method involves exercises to teach slower, deeper nasal breathing, which may improve asthma symptoms. One exercise involves exhaling normally, then holding your breath by pinching your nose until you feel the urge to breathe, followed by breathing normally for about 10 seconds before repeating. Controlled coughing, or huffing, can also help clear mucus from the airways, reducing inflammation and congestion.
Environmental Adjustments
The immediate environment can significantly influence an asthma attack. Identifying and moving away from potential triggers is a practical step to mitigate symptoms. Common triggers include tobacco smoke, dust, strong odors from perfumes or cleaning supplies, and allergens like pollen, mold spores, or pet dander. If indoors, move to an area with fresh air, and if safe, open windows for ventilation.
Avoiding exposure to these irritants can prevent the attack from worsening. If outdoor air pollution or pollen counts are high, staying indoors is advisable. If there’s an obvious source of irritation, leave the area immediately. Reducing indoor humidity to 50% or less can also help control common triggers like dust mites and mold.
When to Seek Emergency Care
While self-management techniques can provide temporary relief, it is important to recognize when an asthma attack requires immediate medical attention. Call emergency services if symptoms worsen rapidly or do not improve after attempting self-care. Warning signs include difficulty speaking except in short words or phrases, severe shortness of breath, or straining chest muscles to breathe.
Other indicators for emergency care include a bluish discoloration of the lips or fingernails, which indicates a lack of oxygen. Rapid breathing, such as taking 30 or more breaths per minute, or flaring nostrils with each inhale, also signals a severe attack. If there is confusion, exhaustion, or loss of consciousness, immediate medical help is necessary.