Emergencies
What Is An Asthma Attack?
Key Points
An asthma attack is an emergency where your asthma symptoms suddenly get a lot worse
Asthma attacks are also known as exacerbations or flare ups
Why Do Asthma Attacks Happen?
Key Points
Asthma attacks happen when:
- The muscles around your airways are very tight
- Your airways are very inflamed
You are more likely to have an asthma attack if you ignore SWAT, our seven wonderful asthma tips, which can be found on the Managing Symptoms Page in the Knowledge Section
How To Manage An Asthma Attack
Key Points
The best way to manage an attack is to follow your asthma plan
You should take your MART or AIR inhaler (up to 6 puffs or sucks) or your blue reliever inhaler with your spacer (up to 10 puffs) if:
- The normal dose of your reliever inhaler isn’t helping or lasting
- You are wheezing or coughing a lot
- You have a very tight chest
- You feel too breathless to walk, talk or eat
If you don’t feel better, call 999 and continue to take your inhaler as above
You should always aim to see your Asthma Nurse within 24 hours of an attack