Asthma Attack First Aid

Asthma Attack First Aid

Asthma Attack First Aid – Introduction

This section provides clear and practical information on Asthma Attack First Aid for people in Canada. It is designed to help you understand what to do safely at home if someone has an asthma attack. This is first aid and prevention advice, not a full medical training manual. The goal is to keep you prepared while prioritizing safety.

An asthma attack happens when the airways narrow suddenly, making it hard to breathe. Recognizing the signs early and acting quickly can prevent the situation from getting worse. However, some symptoms require immediate professional help.

Medically reviewed by SASI Medical Review Board.

What You Can Do at Home

• Help the person sit upright and stay calm.
• Assist them in using their prescribed quick-relief inhaler as directed.
• Encourage slow, steady breathing to reduce panic.
• Remove any triggers nearby, such as smoke or strong scents.

What to Avoid

• Do not leave the person alone during an attack.
• Avoid giving any medication not prescribed for asthma.
• Do not delay seeking help if symptoms worsen or do not improve quickly.

When to Call 911 or Seek Urgent Care

• If the person struggles to speak or breathe.
• If their lips or face turn blue or grey.
• If the quick-relief inhaler does not help after a few minutes.
• If the person becomes drowsy, confused, or loses consciousness.

Asthma Attack First Aid – Key facts

• An asthma attack occurs when the airways narrow, making it hard to breathe. Recognizing early signs helps prevent severe attacks.
• Asthma Attack First Aid at home includes helping the person sit upright and stay calm. Encourage slow, deep breaths if possible.
• Use a prescribed reliever inhaler immediately during an attack. Follow the person’s asthma action plan if available.
• Do not give any medication that is not prescribed for asthma or attempt to force fluids during an attack.
• If symptoms do not improve after using the inhaler, or if the person has difficulty speaking, blue lips, or severe breathlessness, call 911 or go to the emergency department without delay.
• Prevent asthma attacks by avoiding known triggers such as smoke, allergens, and cold air. Regularly follow up with a healthcare provider to manage asthma effectively.
• Always keep emergency contact numbers and the person’s asthma action plan accessible in case of an attack.

Asthma Attack First Aid – Recognizing symptoms and danger signs

Knowing how to spot an asthma attack first aid situation can help you act quickly and safely. Symptoms vary from mild to severe, and recognising the difference is key to providing the right care.

Mild symptoms

• Occasional coughing or wheezing
• Slight shortness of breath during activity
• Chest tightness that eases with rest or medication

These symptoms can often be managed at home using prescribed inhalers and by avoiding triggers.

Moderate symptoms

• Frequent coughing or wheezing, even at rest
• Noticeable difficulty breathing or speaking in full sentences
• Chest tightness that does not improve quickly with medication

If symptoms worsen or do not improve after using a reliever inhaler, seek urgent care at an emergency department or urgent care centre.

Severe symptoms and red flags

• Severe shortness of breath or gasping for air
• Inability to speak more than a few words at a time
• Lips or face turning blue or grey
• Rapid worsening of symptoms despite treatment
• Confusion, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness

These signs indicate a life-threatening emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Asthma Attack First Aid – Immediate first aid steps

If someone is having an asthma attack, quick and calm action can help ease their breathing While Waiting For medical help. Follow these safe steps to provide effective asthma attack first aid.

What you can do at home or in the community

• Help the person sit upright comfortably. Avoid lying them down.
• Encourage slow, steady breaths to reduce panic and improve airflow.
• Assist them to use their prescribed reliever inhaler (usually a blue one). Have them take one puff every 30 to 60 seconds, up to 10 puffs.
• If they have a spacer device, help them use it correctly for better medication delivery.
• Stay calm and reassure the person. Keep them away from triggers like smoke or strong smells.

What to avoid

• Do not leave the person alone during an attack.
• Avoid giving any medication not prescribed for asthma.
• Do not delay calling for emergency help if symptoms worsen or do not improve quickly.

When to call 911 or seek urgent care

Call 911 immediately if the person:

• Has difficulty speaking or is too breathless to talk.
• Shows blue or grey lips, face, or fingernails.
• Becomes drowsy, confused, or loses consciousness.
• Does not improve after 10 puffs of their reliever inhaler.
• Has a history of severe asthma attacks or hospital admissions.

In all other cases, if symptoms persist or worsen, seek urgent care without delay. Early action can prevent serious complications during an asthma attack.

Asthma Attack First Aid – What NOT to do

When providing asthma attack first aid, certain actions can make the situation worse. Avoid these common mistakes to keep the person safe and stable until help arrives.

Do NOT delay seeking emergency help

• Do not wait if the person’s breathing worsens rapidly or they become unable to speak full sentences.
• Do not hesitate to call 911 or local emergency services if symptoms do not improve after using a reliever inhaler or if the person shows signs of severe distress.

Do NOT give anything by mouth if breathing is severely impaired

Do not offer food, drink, or medication other than the prescribed inhaler during an asthma attack. Swallowing may be difficult and could cause choking.

Do NOT use unproven remedies or home treatments

• Avoid herbal remedies, essential oils, or other alternative treatments that have not been recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Do not attempt to perform invasive procedures or use equipment that requires medical training.

Do NOT leave the person alone

Stay with the person throughout the attack. Leaving them alone can increase anxiety and delay emergency response if their condition worsens.

Remember, asthma attack first aid focuses on safe, simple steps. Avoid unsafe practices and seek urgent care promptly when needed.

Asthma Attack First Aid – When to call 911 or seek urgent care

Knowing when to call 911 or seek urgent care is crucial during an asthma attack. Acting quickly can prevent serious complications and save lives.

Call 911 immediately if:

• The person has severe difficulty breathing or is unable to speak full sentences.
• There is bluish colour around the lips or face, indicating low oxygen.
• The person becomes confused, drowsy, or loses consciousness.
• Symptoms worsen rapidly despite using a reliever inhaler.
• The person’s chest or neck muscles pull in with each breath (retractions).

Go to the emergency department if:

• Breathing is difficult but not immediately life-threatening.
• Symptoms do not improve after using a reliever inhaler as directed.
• The person has repeated asthma attacks or needs frequent use of a reliever inhaler.
• There is a history of severe asthma or other health conditions that increase risk.

Visit a walk-in clinic or family doctor when:

• Symptoms are mild and controlled with usual medication.
• The person needs a review of their asthma management plan.
• There is a need for a prescription refill or advice on preventing future attacks.

Remember, during an asthma attack first aid, never delay calling 911 if symptoms are severe or worsening quickly. Prompt action can make all the difference.

Asthma Attack First Aid – Ongoing care and follow-up

After an asthma attack, careful monitoring is essential to ensure recovery and prevent further complications. You can safely manage mild symptoms at home by resting and using your prescribed inhaler as directed.

Monitoring your condition

Watch for any changes in breathing, coughing, or wheezing. Keep track of how often you need to use your inhaler. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few hours, seek medical advice promptly.

Self-care tips

• Use your asthma medication exactly as prescribed.
• Avoid triggers such as smoke, strong scents, or allergens.
• Stay hydrated and rest to support your recovery.
• Keep a written record of your symptoms and medication use.

When to seek medical follow-up

Book an appointment with your doctor within a few days after an asthma attack. This visit helps review your treatment plan and adjust medications if needed. Contact your healthcare provider sooner if you experience:

• Persistent shortness of breath or chest tightness
• Increased use of your inhaler without relief
• Difficulty speaking or walking due to breathlessness
• Blue lips or face

For any life-threatening or rapidly worsening symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately. Prompt action can save lives during an asthma attack first aid situation.

Asthma Attack First Aid – Prevention tips

Preventing an asthma attack first aid situation starts with creating a safe environment at home, work, school, and in the community. Simple changes and habits can reduce the risk of attacks and help manage asthma effectively.

At home

• Keep your living space clean and free of dust, pet dander, and mould.
• Use a HEPA air filter if possible to reduce airborne triggers.
• Avoid smoking indoors and limit exposure to strong scents or chemicals.
• Store medications as directed and have your inhaler easily accessible.

At work and school

• Inform supervisors or teachers about your asthma and your action plan.
• Identify and avoid known triggers such as dust, fumes, or cold air.
• Keep your reliever inhaler with you at all times.
• Request accommodations if needed, such as reduced exposure to irritants.

In the community

• Avoid outdoor activities when air quality is poor or pollen counts are high.
• Wear a scarf or mask in cold or dusty environments.
• Stay informed about local asthma alerts or warnings.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and asthma action plan. If you experience severe difficulty breathing, persistent wheezing, or rapid worsening of symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Early prevention and quick response can help keep asthma under control and reduce the risk of serious attacks.

Asthma Attack First Aid – FAQs

What should I do if someone is having an asthma attack?

Help the person sit upright and stay calm. Assist them in using their prescribed quick-relief inhaler, usually a blue one. Encourage slow, deep breaths. If symptoms do not improve within a few minutes or worsen, call 911 immediately.

Can I use a spacer with an inhaler at home?

Yes, using a spacer with a metered-dose inhaler is safe and can help deliver medication more effectively. Make sure the spacer is clean and used according to the instructions provided by a healthcare professional.

When should I go to urgent care or the emergency department?

• If the person’s breathing becomes very difficult or noisy
• If lips or face turn blue or grey
• If they cannot speak full sentences due to breathlessness
• If quick-relief medication does not help after 5-10 minutes

In these cases, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department without delay.

What should I avoid doing during an asthma attack?

Do not give any medication not prescribed for asthma. Avoid making the person lie flat or panic. Do not delay calling emergency services if symptoms worsen quickly or do not improve.

How can I help prevent asthma attacks?

Encourage regular use of prescribed controller medications and avoiding known triggers such as smoke, allergens, or cold air. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important to manage asthma safely.

Asthma Attack First Aid – Summary

Asthma attack first aid focuses on quick, safe actions to help someone experiencing breathing difficulties. At home, encourage the person to sit upright and use their prescribed reliever inhaler as directed. Stay calm and monitor their condition closely.

Avoid giving any medication not prescribed for asthma or attempting to force fluids if the person is struggling to breathe. Do not delay seeking professional help if symptoms worsen or do not improve quickly.

When to seek urgent care

• If the person’s breathing becomes very difficult or noisy
• If they cannot speak full sentences due to breathlessness
• If their lips or face turn blue or grey
• If the reliever inhaler does not improve symptoms after several doses
• If the person becomes drowsy, confused, or loses consciousness

In any of these situations, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Prompt medical attention can be lifesaving. Remember, asthma attack first aid is about supporting the person safely until professional help arrives.

Asthma Attack First Aid – External Resources

• Health Canada – Asthma
• Mayo Clinic – Asthma Treatment
• World Health Organization – Asthma
• Canadian Red Cross – Asthma Emergency

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or emergency care. Always call 911 or your local emergency number in a medical emergency.