Knowing when to Take Action During an Asthma Attack

If you suffer from asthma, you probably never want to endure another attack again. You can eliminate some of these attacks by simply avoiding the allergens that can cause them. However, this doesn't mean you still shouldn't have a plan of action in place in case an attack does occur. It also doesn't mean that you luckily, there are simple ways you can avoid these attacks, avoiding some of the allergens that causes them. Yet, . Of course, this means you may have to make sacrifices and you definitely may have to make some lifestyle adjustments. However, if it can keep you from another dreadful attack filled with endless coughing, terrible wheezing and not to mention those scary bouts of shortness of breath, wouldn't these sarcrifices be worth it?

Avoid A full Attack, By Learning The Warning Signs

Sounds simple and in a way it is. If you can learn the warning signs of a asthma attack, you may be able to begin to treatment to help stop the attack from becoming a full blown one. These warning signs include:

• Sudden fatigue
• Headache
• Not being able to tolerate normal exercise routines
• Coughing
• A dry cough that won't seem to stop
• Your breathing begins to change
• Your numbers on your peak flowmeter begins to dip

Steps To Take As The Asthma Attack Begins

As you notice more and more signs that an asthma attack is about to happen, it is time to begin taking action.. This is why you as an asthma patient should always have a set plan of action prepared for these moments. What steps should you take now?

• Know what medications you should take right before an attack and the amount of each. This should be discussed before hand with your doctor.
• Decide if it is better to call your doctor and go directly to the ER. This will depend on how well you are breathing. Generally, you will begin with slight wheezing and may work your way up to have major problems breathing, shortness of breath, holding your chest, leaning forward, trying to catch your breath, etc.
• Teach your family and friends to understand to watch your fingernails and lips. If they see them turning gray or purple during one of these attacks, they are to immediately call 9-1-1. This is a sign that you are not getting enough oxygen into your blood. They should also call 9-1-1, in the following circumstances: you are unable to talk, you are very pale, you are sweating, your breathing is becoming labored.

Remember a plan of action and swift action may be the only way to save your life someday. Have these plans of action in place and make others aware of them.