Asthma Flare Up (Asthma Attack)
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Symptoms of an flare-up or exacerbation of asthma can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Throat clearing
- Difficulty sleeping
- Chest pain or tightness
- Fatigue
If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with the use of an inhaler, it is important to seek immediate medical treatment. Additionally, if you experience symptoms of an asthma emergency, such as severe trouble breathing, gasping for air, confusion, pale or blue lips or fingernails, dizziness, difficulty walking or talking, it is crucial to call 911 or your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Asthma flare-ups can be triggered by various factors. Some common triggers include:
- Allergens such as pollens, dust mites, and mold
- Cold air
- Respiratory infections like the flu or common cold
To treat a flare-up of asthma, it is important to follow a personalized treatment plan developed in consultation with your healthcare professional or respiratory specialist. This plan may include a combination of long-term control medications and quick relief medications like rescue inhalers for unexpected flare-ups. It is important to take these medications as directed by your doctor.
In addition to medication, there are steps you can take to reduce trigger exposure and help prevent future flare-ups of asthma, including:
- Allergen-proof your home by eliminating dust as much as possible. This can include removing carpets and using dust-resistant bedding.
- Use an air conditioner instead of opening windows to reduce exposure to outdoor irritants like pollen.
- Stay healthy by getting vaccines and washing your hands during peak disease seasons.
- Protect your face from cold air by wearing a scarf or jacket that covers your face in frigid temperatures.
It's important to remember that asthma is a chronic disease without a cure. Managing asthma involves proactively controlling symptoms and avoiding triggers whenever possible. If you consistently experience unusual asthma symptoms or have concerns about your treatment plan, it may be time to see your doctor for further evaluation and modification of your current treatment plan.