What to do during Asthma Attacks
Asthma is a condition that affects the airways of the lungs. Asthma can cause the lungs to go into spasm and tighten which can make it very difficult to breathe for someone who is having an Attack. There are many factors that can trigger Asthma Attacks; the weather, allergies, over exertion, illness and stress to name but a few.
3 people die every day in the UK from fatal Asthma Attacks; these could potentially be avoided if people understood more about the condition. Every 10 seconds someone has a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.
What are the symptoms of Asthma Attacks?
-Tight chest
-Difficulty breathing
-Wheezing
-Coughing
-Distress
-Struggling to speak, sleep or eat
-Children can sometimes complain of a tummy ache
Usually, these symptoms will not occur suddenly.
What do you do when Asthma Attacks occur?
-Stay calm, panicking will only make things worse.
-Make them comfortable
-Ask them to use their reliever inhaler
-Reassure them
-Encourage slow and steady breathing
-If the casualty shows no sign of improvement or the casualty does not have their inhaler with them, call 999 or 112
If you think you are having an asthma attack and you are alone, take the above steps. Take slow and steady breaths and try to remain calm. If your symptoms do not improve, do not hesitate to call 999 or 112.
Advice for friends and family
It is very important that friends and family of Asthma sufferers know how they can help during an emergency.
If you have a personal Asthma action plan, it is useful to make copies and share it with people that are you are often with so that they have something to refer back to during an emergency.
If you are interested in learning how to help in emergency medical situations, please get in touch with our team about booking yourself a space on one of our first aid training courses. Contact us on admin @ajuda.org.uk or call 029 2057 6883.