Asthma Attack

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• If you use a medicine that you inhale, here are some tips:
  • First, shake the inhaler.
  • Breathe out slowly, all the way.
  • Put the mouthpiece of the inhaler in your mouth or 2 inches away (about half a finger's length), or use the spacer (a piece of plastic-like tubing that attaches to the inhaler).
  • Breathe in and push down on the inhaler at the same time (to create the mist).
  • Hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
  • Breathe out slowly through puckered lips or through your nose.
  • If you need to take 2 puffs, wait 2 to 5 seconds before taking the second one.
  • Gargling after using your inhaler may reduce the amount of burning in your throat.
• When you have an attack:
  • Use your inhaler. If this does not help, repeat the inhaler one more time after waiting the number of minutes recommended by your doctor. If the second try doesn't work, check to see whether the inhaler is empty. It's empty if it floats in a bowl of water.
  • It may help your breathing if you straddle a chair backwards, placing your elbows up on the back of the chair.
• If you do not know what causes your attacks:
  • Keep writing down the time of your attack. Also notice what is around you when it occurs.
  • Consider allergy testing if you have not had it done already.
• Always take your medicine as directed by your doctor. If you feel it is not helping, call your doctor. Do not quit taking it on your own.
• Try to avoid pollen, dust, animals, molds, smoke, and anything else that could cause an attack.
• Keep the amount of dust in your home at a minimum. One way is to hire a company to clean out the air ducts and vents in your house.
• Replace your pillows or mattress with materials that don't cause allergies. Look for bedding that is made of ""urethane'' or foam rubber and is labeled ""nonallergenic.''
• If you do not have to limit the amount of liquids you drink, drink 8 to 10 (soda-can sized) glasses of water each day. This helps thin the sputum so it can be coughed up more easily.
• If animals are the cause of your asthma, you may need to find another home for your pets.
• Quit smoking. It harms the lungs. If you are having trouble quitting, ask your doctor for help.
• Exercise daily. It helps make the heart stronger, lowers blood pressure, and keeps you healthy. If your exercise plan seems too hard or easy, check with your doctor.
• Excess weight can make the heart and lungs work harder. If you need to lose weight, ask your doctor for the plan that's best for you.

See More...

• When to Call the Doctor
• What to expect at the hospital