Post-Asthma Attack Recovery- Essential Steps to Take for a Swift and Safe Recovery

What to Do After a Severe Asthma Attack

A severe asthma attack can be a terrifying and life-threatening experience. If you or someone you know is experiencing a severe asthma attack, it’s crucial to know what to do immediately to ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s a guide on what to do after a severe asthma attack.

1. Call for Help

The first step after a severe asthma attack is to call for emergency medical assistance. If you’re the one experiencing the attack, use your phone to call emergency services. If someone else is having an attack, help them call for help. Time is of the essence, and professional medical care is necessary to manage a severe asthma attack effectively.

2. Administer Quick-relief Medication

If you have quick-relief medication (also known as a bronchodilator) prescribed for your asthma, use it as soon as possible. This medication can help open up your airways and provide immediate relief. If you’re not sure what to do, follow the instructions on the medication label or ask your healthcare provider for guidance.

3. Loosen Tight Clothing

Loosen any tight clothing or jewelry around the neck and chest area. Constricted clothing can make it harder to breathe and may worsen the asthma attack.

4. Sit Up and Lean Forward

Encourage the person having an asthma attack to sit up and lean forward. This position can help improve breathing and make it easier to receive assistance.

5. Stay Calm and Comfortable

Stay calm and try to keep the person having an asthma attack calm as well. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate the symptoms of an asthma attack. Comfort them and reassure them that help is on the way.

6. Monitor Breathing

Keep an eye on the person’s breathing. If their breathing becomes very shallow or they stop breathing, perform CPR if you’re trained to do so. However, it’s essential to note that CPR is not recommended for asthma attacks unless the person is unconscious and not breathing.

7. Avoid Trigger Factors

If you know what triggered the asthma attack, try to remove the person from that environment. Avoiding triggers is crucial in managing asthma and preventing future attacks.

8. Follow Up with Healthcare Provider

After the severe asthma attack, it’s essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may adjust your asthma treatment plan or recommend additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the attack.

Remember, knowing what to do after a severe asthma attack can make a significant difference in the outcome. Always have your asthma action plan readily available and familiarize yourself with the steps to take during an asthma emergency.