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Asthma occurs when the airways (bronchial tubes) in the lungs become inflamed and are blocked by mucus, making breathing difficult. The chest tightens and the lungs seem to produce a wheezing sound.
There could be many triggers for an asthma attack. Air pollution, exposure to irritants such as dust, cigarette smoke and pet dander, physical exertion and emotional outbursts can all trigger an asthma attack.
However, should you be caught without your inhaler due to unforeseen circumstances, you could try these coping techniques:
- Sit upright
Stop whatever you are doing and sit upright. Bending over or lying down can constrict your breathing even more.
- Take long, deep breaths
This helps to slow down your breathing and prevent hyperventilation. Breathe in through your nose and breathe out through your mouth.
- Stay calm
Staying calm may prevent further tightening of your chest muscles and make your breathing easier.
- Get away from the trigger
The asthma attack could be triggered by dust, cigarette smoke or the smell of chemicals (e.g., ammonia, chlorine gas, sulphur dioxide). Get away from the trigger as soon as possible and go to an air-conditioned environment or any place with clean air.
- Take a hot caffeinated beverage
Hot caffeinated drinks like coffee can help to open up the airways slightly, providing some relief for an hour or two.
- Seek emergency medical help
If the wheezing, coughing and breathing difficulty do not subside after a period of rest, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of an asthma attack
An asthma attack can be mild or severe. Be alert for these general symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing/breathlessness
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the chest
- Coughing
If you experience severe breathing difficulty, a rapid increase in your pulse rate, severe coughing, and notice that your nails and lips are turning bluish, get medical help immediately, as these are signs of a severe asthma attack.
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