What is an asthma attack?

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about asthma attacks. We’ll cover what an asthma attack is, how common they are and what symptoms to look out for. As well as this, we will also explain the common causes of asthma attacks, how long they can last and what to do if one occurs. We’ll also provide information on effective treatments and steps you can take to prevent future attacks.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about asthma attacks:

• Asthma attacks occur when airways become inflamed and narrow, leading to symptoms such as wheezing and breathlessness, and can be life-threatening if not treated.

• Asthma attacks are a serious health issue in the UK, with one happening every 10 seconds and three people dying from them each day. Many of these deaths are preventable.

• Common asthma attack triggers include allergens, air pollution, respiratory infections, exercise and stress.

• Inhalers, particularly preventers and relievers, are the primary treatment for asthma attacks, with alternative treatments available for more persistent symptoms. Popular inhalers include Ventolin, Salamol and Fostair. These inhalers, as well as many others, can be purchased online from UK Meds.

• Preventing asthma attacks involves following a personalised asthma action plan, taking medications as prescribed, and having regular reviews with a GP or asthma nurse.

What is an asthma attack?

An asthma attack occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrow, making breathing difficult. This happens because the breathing tubes, which carry air in and out of the lungs, become more sensitive and temporarily tighten. During an attack, asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness can worsen. Asthma attacks are serious and can be life-threatening, with one happening every 10 seconds in the UK. With the proper treatment, the risk of having an asthma attack can be greatly reduced (NHS, 2021).

How prevalent are asthma attacks in the UK?

Asthma attacks are a serious health concern in the UK, with someone experiencing a potentially life-threatening attack every 10 seconds. Asthma attacks, unfortunately, lead to the deaths of 3 people every day. Many of these deaths could be prevented with proper treatment and management, according to the NHS. This is one of the most tragic aspects of deaths caused by asthma attacks, as, according to Asthma & Lung UK, 2 out of 3 deaths are deemed to have been preventable. 

What are the symptoms of an asthma attack?

The symptoms of an asthma attack can vary in intensity but often start with common asthma signs such as wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing. During an asthma attack, these symptoms can become much more severe. You may also experience:

• Constant wheezing,

• Extreme chest tightness

• Difficulty breathing

Other signs of a serious attack include rapid breathing, a fast heartbeat, drowsiness or confusion and blue lips or fingers. In extreme cases, you may be too breathless to speak, eat, or sleep, and fainting may occur. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical help, according to the NHS.

What can cause an asthma attack?

An asthma attack can be triggered by a variety of factors. Common causes of asthma symptoms include exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet hair, as well as air pollution and other airborne irritants like smoke or strong chemical fumes.

Infections that affect the respiratory system, such as colds or the flu, can also lead to an asthma attack. Other triggers include exercise, changes in weather or air temperature, strong emotions like stress and even certain medications, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Identifying and avoiding your specific triggers is an important part of managing asthma and reducing the risk of an attack. 

How long can an asthma attack last?

The length of an asthma attack can vary depending on its severity and the cause. Mild symptoms may only last a few minutes, while more severe attacks can last hours or even days. The duration of an asthma attack often depends on how long the airways have been inflamed and how quickly treatment is received. Timely treatment can help reduce the length and intensity of an attack; however, if treatment is not received quickly enough, symptoms may persist and become more dangerous (Soliman, Barrell & West, 2024).

What are the common triggers of an asthma attack?

As previously mentioned, common triggers of an asthma attack include allergens, respiratory infections and irritants that can cause sensitive airways to narrow and become inflamed. These triggers vary from person to person but often include pollen, dust, pet hair and tobacco smoke. Physical activity, cold weather and air pollution can also provoke asthma symptoms (NHS, 2021).

What treatments are available for an asthma attack?

Several treatments are available to help manage and treat asthma attacks. Below are the most common options typically prescribed by doctors, as outlined by Asthma and Lung UK.

Asthma inhalers

These are used during an asthma attack to quickly relieve symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and breathlessness. They provide immediate relief by relaxing the airways. Popular asthma inhalers that you can purchase from UK Meds include Ventolin, Salamol and Luforbec.

Preventer inhalers

These are used daily to help reduce inflammation in the airways and prevent asthma attacks by stopping symptoms from occurring. Popular preventer inhalers include Alvesco, Flixotide and Clenil Modulite.

Reliever inhalers

These inhalers provide quick relief during an asthma attack by relaxing the muscles around the airways, helping to ease symptoms. They should be used when needed, but if you find you are using them frequently, it may indicate that your asthma isn’t well controlled. Popular reliever inhalers you can buy online from UK Meds include Ventolin, Salamol and Sereflo.

Add-on treatments

Most people manage their asthma with a preventer inhaler and a reliever inhaler when needed. However, if symptoms persist despite using these as prescribed, your GP may suggest add-on treatments to help control your asthma.

Long-acting bronchodilators

These medications keep the airways open for up to 12 hours and reduce the risk of asthma attacks. Common long-acting bronchodilators you can buy online include Serevent, Spiriva Respimat and Incruse Ellipta.

Montelukast

This non-steroid preventer tablet helps reduce airway inflammation and is used alongside preventer inhalers to manage asthma symptoms. You can purchase Montelukast online from UK Meds.

Steroid tablets

Prescribed for short-term use during severe asthma attacks, steroid tablets reduce inflammation in the airways and help control symptoms.

How can asthma attacks be prevented?

To help prevent asthma attacks, the NHS advises the following:

• Follow your personal asthma action plan and take all prescribed medicines as directed.

• Have regular reviews with your GP or asthma nurse at least once a year. They can check that your treatment is working properly and that you’re using your inhaler correctly.

• Try to avoid known triggers whenever possible and seek medical advice if your symptoms worsen or you find yourself needing your reliever inhaler more frequently.

Sources

Asthma - Symptoms - NHS

Asthma attacks - Asthma + Lung UK

Asthma | NHS inform

Asthma Attacks - St John Ambulance