Important Asthma Attack Signs: What to Watch For
Anyone who has asthma and wants to avoid having a severe asthma attack should be aware of the different signs of an asthma attack coming on. If they understand what the asthma attack signs are they will be able to take the necessary steps to stop the attack before it gets serious or even prevent it altogether.
Asthma Attack Signs
There are quite a few different asthma attack signs that one may experience immediately before they experience an asthma attack. First, know that an asthma attack is a sudden worsening of asthma symptoms, caused by the tightening of muscles around your airways.
A few of the most common asthma attack signs include severe wheezing when breathing both in and out, coughing that won’t stop, very rapid breathing, chest pain or pressure, tightened neck and chest muscles, difficulty talking, feelings of anxiety or panic, a pale or sweaty face, blue lips or fingernails, and worsening symptoms despite use of your medication.
What to do
If you ever notice the onset of any of these symptoms, the most important thing is that you keep from panicking. You should begin pursed-lip breathing, and use your peak flow meter to check the severity of your attack. Also make sure that you get away from any triggers such as pet dander and cigarette smoke, so that the attack does not get worse.