Asthma Attack

An asthma attack occurs when asthma symptoms worsen.

  • Tightening of muscles around your airways (bronchospasm) occurs
  • Inflammation or swelling of the lining of the airways and more than normal
  • Thicker and increased production mucus

These problems are caused by an over-sensitivity of the lungs and airways. All of these factors - bronchospasm, inflammation, and mucus production, cause symptoms of an asthma attack.

These symptoms include:  

  • Difficult and very rapid breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty performing normal daily activities.
  • Severe wheezing when inhaling and exhaling
  • Uncontrollable Coughing
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Tightened chest and neck muscles, called retractions
  • Difficulty talking
  • Feelings of anxiety or panic
  • Pale, sweaty face
  • Blue lips or fingernails
  • Worsening symptoms despite use of your medications

Some asthma sufferers may go for long periods without having an attack or other asthma symptoms. They may experience periodic worsening of their symptoms, caused by exposure to asthma triggers or perhaps from overdoing it during exercise-induced asthma.

Mild attacks are generally more common. The airways will open up within a few minutes to a few hours after treatment. Severe attacks are less common but will last longer and require immediate medical help. To prevent severe attacks and keep asthma under control, it is important to recognize and treat even mild symptoms.

Who is at risk of an asthma attack?

Although anyone may have an attack, but it commonly occurs in:

  • children by the age of 5
  • adults in their 30s
  • adults over 65years
  • people living in urban communities
  • people with a family history of asthma
  • personal medical history of allergies

Children most vulnerable to attacks include those:

  • with a family history of asthma
  • who have allergies
  • have exposure to passive smoking

What Do I Do If I Have An Asthma Attack?

If you or a loved one is experiencing an attack and the symptoms do not improve after following the asthma management plan, contact your medical professional.