How To React During An Asthma Attack

Asthma is a frightening illness that prevents patients from effectively breathing to their full potential. Typical signs and symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. In addition, the patient may become anxious, further exacerbating their anxiety. When this occurs, it is important for patients to know how to react during an asthma attack. Staying calm is almost always beneficial during an asthma attack and can even prevent the attack from becoming worse.

The way a patient reacts during an asthma attack can mean the difference between a mild attack and a severe one. When the patient stays calm, they can better focus on self administering their medications and treatments. In addition, when the asthmatic is relaxed, he is better able to receive his inhalation medication. Hyperventilating can spur on an anxiety attack, which makes it more difficult for the patient to expectorate obstructing mucus. When this happens, the lungs become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can worsen asthma.

In the event of an emergency, when an asthmatic knows how to react during an asthma attack, he will keep a clear mind and be better equipped to call for emergency assistance if needed. When panicked during an asthma attack, the patient may desperately need help, however is too anxious to call for emergency services. If the patient can try to remain calm, he can better explain his situation to the 911 dispatcher. Accurate patient information can better equip paramedics to deal with the situation, and better assist the patient.

People and bystanders who witness a person having an asthma attack need to know how to react during an asthma attack. They too, need to stay calm, because when the patient sees people around him calm, it diminishes his anxiety at bay. If, on the other hand, he sees people panic and ill at ease, it may have a negative effect on his emotional state. Bystanders should offer support and try to gently take charge of the situation, so that the patient can concentrate on his breathing. The asthmatic patient needs all the support and reassurance he can get to help speed up his recovery.