What is an asthma attack?

Key Takeaways

• An asthma attack happens when your asthma symptoms suddenly get much worse – it can be life-threatening without the right treatment.

• If your reliever inhaler isn’t helping, or symptoms don’t improve after 10 puffs, call 999 immediately for urgent help.

• Most asthma attacks can be prevented with proper medication use, annual check-ups, and knowing your triggers.

Understanding Asthma Attacks

In the UK, someone has a potentially life-threatening asthma attack every 10 seconds. That’s why it’s vital to recognise the signs and act quickly. An asthma attack happens when your asthma symptoms become much worse than usual. You may feel very breathless, start wheezing, or feel tightness in your chest. It might even become difficult to speak or catch your breath.

Although the word “attack” might sound sudden, asthma attacks don’t always happen instantly. Sometimes they build up over hours or even days.

What Happens During an Asthma Attack?

During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed, swollen, and filled with mucus. This makes it much harder to breathe. Even using your usual reliever inhaler (such as Ventolin or Salamol) might not work as it normally does.

What to Do If You’re Having an Asthma Attack

1. Sit upright – do not lie down.

2. Try to stay calm and take slow, steady breaths.

3. Take one puff of your reliever inhaler every 30 to 60 seconds, up to a maximum of 10 puffs.

If you start to feel better after using your inhaler, it’s still important to book a same-day emergency appointment with your GP or asthma nurse. Your asthma may no longer be well controlled and your treatment plan may need updating.

If your symptoms don’t improve after 10 puffs, if they get worse, or if you don’t have your inhaler with you, call 999 straight away. Asthma attacks can be fatal, and emergency help is essential if your breathing is getting worse.

After any asthma attack, always follow up with your GP or asthma nurse. Around 1 in 6 people who go to hospital with an asthma attack need to be seen again within two weeks.

How to Prevent an Asthma Attack

Most asthma attacks can be avoided with good asthma management. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:

• Take your medication exactly as prescribed. This includes daily preventer inhalers that reduce airway inflammation.

• Attend your annual asthma review with your GP or asthma nurse to keep your treatment plan up to date.

• Use your inhalers correctly. If you’re unsure how to use them, check the leaflet or ask your pharmacist or nurse.

• Know your asthma triggers and try to avoid them. These may include pollen, cold air, smoke, dust mites, or pets.

• Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you notice you’re using your reliever inhaler more often than usual, speak to your doctor.

Common asthma treatments include Ventolin, Fostair, and Luforbec.

Need a New Inhaler?

If you’re running low on your reliever or preventer inhalers, you can request a repeat supply online from UK Meds. After a short online consultation, your request will be reviewed by a registered independent prescriber. If approved, your inhaler can be delivered straight to your door, often as soon as the next working day.

Final Thoughts

Asthma attacks can be frightening and dangerous. But with the right knowledge, medication, and support from your healthcare team, they can often be prevented. Always carry your inhaler, follow your asthma plan, and never hesitate to seek help if your breathing worsens. Your life may depend on it.

Sources

• Asthma Attack - NHS

• Asthma Attacks - Asthma + Lung UK

• First Aid for Asthma Attack - St John Ambulance