ASTHMATIC ATTACK

         Most asthma attacks, while distressing, do not threaten life.  However, a few particularly serious attacks are fatal each year.

         During an asthmatic attack the muscles around the air tubes go into spasm, impeding breathing.  At the same time, the walls of the air tubes swell, and the tubes are further blocked by thick, tenacious mucus.






Warning signs of a severe attack

  • Noisy, wheezy breathing
  • Pale or bluish-gray complexion
  • Beads of sweat on the forehead
  • A anxious expression
  • In a prolonged attack, mental confusion because of lack of oxygen
  • The victim struggles for breath, and is often found sitting hunched up grasping the chair arms, a table-top or other support.

What you can do

  • Most asthmatic attacks occur at night, often when the sufferer is in bed.  In this case, open the window to provide fresh air and prop up the sufferer in bed with pillows.
  • Even though the window is open, keep the room warm
  • Call the doctor for  all but the mildest attack.  Reassure the suffering person telling him/her that expert help is on the way.
  • If you have to take an asthma victim to hospital, transport him sitting up in the front passenger seat rather than lying down in the back.

Causes 

  • Respiratory infection may cause inflammation of the air tubes.
  • Allergy to various substances including house-dust mites, animal fur or feather, pollen and some foods.
  • Night-time attacks in children are often associated with house-dust mites, down pillows or pets sleeping in the bedroom.
  • Anxiety or excitement seems to bring on attacks in some people
 

HOW TO HELP DURING AN ATTACK

1.  If possible, sit an asthma sufferer in an upright chair drawn close to a table or the back of another chair on the which he can rest his forearms.  His back should be fairly straight, and his elbows spread out.

2.  If the sufferer has an inhaler, help him to use it.  If he has an oxygen cylinder at home, give him oxygen only if you have been taught how to use it.