More than 25 million people in the United States live with asthma. Of those, more than 10 million report having had one or more asthma attacks in the past year. Asthma attacks result in 1.6 million emergency department visits and 178,000 hospitalizations each year.
What is an asthma attack?
An asthma attack occurs when an asthma trigger causes the lungs to become inflamed and swollen. You may also hear an asthma attack referred to as an asthma flare, asthma exacerbation, or asthma episode. The muscles around the breathing tubes tighten or spasm and more mucus than usual is produced. All these work to make the breathing tubes narrower and make it harder to get air into the lungs. If your asthma symptoms are worsening, you may be having an asthma attack. Any of these signs indicate the need for prompt medical treatment. An asthma attack can be a life-threatening emergency and may require medical care or emergency services.
How do I recognize the early signs of an asthma attack?
When asking yourself “Am I having an asthma attack?”, you can usually tell by looking at your body’s reaction. The following are some common warning signs of an upcoming asthma attack:
- Your throat becomes itchy. This will cause you to cough more than usual. You might also notice a runny nose.
- Breathing gets harder – this means that there is less air getting into your lungs making it harder for you to breathe. You may have to use stomach muscles to help you breathe and you may hear a whistling sound or wheeze when you breathe.
- You may then develop tightness or pain in your chest, in addition to a cough and wheezing. These are all signs pointing to an asthma attack.
It is crucial that people with asthma learn to understand their triggers and to avoid them when possible.
What causes an asthma attack?
Asthma attacks are caused by swelling and airway inflammation and mucus in the airways. These attacks are normally triggered by an environmental or external factor. Common triggers that may lead to an asthma attack include:
- Indoor allergens: mold, pet dander, dust mites, cockroaches
- Outdoor allergens: pollen, mold
- Irritants: tobacco smoke, diesel exhaust, air pollution
- Respiratory infections: colds, flu, sinus infections, COVID-19
- Exercising with asthma
- Stress
- Cold air or sudden changes in temperature
- Strong smells
- Strong emotions such as laughing or crying
- Hormonal changes
- Humidity
What do I do if I have an asthma attack?
Any person diagnosed with asthma should work with their doctor to develop an Asthma Action Plan. These plans outline everyday treatment. according to what zone you are in based on your peak flow meter. An Asthma Action Plan spells out:
- how to treat your asthma daily
- how to handle situations such as exercising or when you have a cold or virus
- what to do when symptoms get worse, such as when you are having an asthma attack
Treatment for an acute asthma attack varies person-to-person, but often involves asthma medicines, including quick-relief albuterol inhalers. Make sure you understand when and why to use your asthma medication. If you don’t have a personal Asthma Action Plan or are unsure of what to do, seek medical attention or dial 9-1-1.
Asthma attack: FAQs
Here are some of the most asked questions regarding an asthma attack.