How To Control Asthma Attacks

If you suspect you have asthma, have a medical doctor evaluate your condition. You may benefit from daily medication to prevent attacks. You may also need to carry a quick-reliever, like an inhaler, in case an attack occurs.

Learn to recognize the warning signs of an attack so you can treat it before it becomes severe. Common symptoms include chest tightness, coughing, spitting up phlegm, wheezing, and a whistling noise when you breathe.

Try to avoid or limit your exposure to things that spark attacks. Common triggers include pollen, mold, dust, animals, tobacco smoke, smog, strenuous exercise, certain cleaning products, perfume, cold air, and aspirin and other pain relievers.

Get a peak-flow meter, a device that measures airflow from the lungs. Blow into the meter when you’re not having an attack to determine your “personal best” reading. You can compare the number against future measurements, helping to confirm when an attack may be imminent and determine if your medicine is working.

Go to the emergency room if you can’t speak more than short phrases, are straining to breathe, or if your peak-flow reading is less than 50 percent of your personal best.