Asthma attacks are very common and it is important to have an understanding and some knowledge of what to do in the event of someone having an asthma attack. Statistics show that Asthma attacks kill 3 people a day in the UK, of which deaths could be avoided by knowing how to deal with an Asthma attack and taking the necessary precautions such as being on the right treatment which will reduce the chances of having an Asthma attack. 

 

In 2016-17, there were 77,124 admissions to hospital for asthma in the UK

 

WHAT IS ASTHMA? 

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition in which the airways can become inflamed leading to difficulties breathing. An Asthma attack is a reaction in the lungs to a trigger such as pollution, pollen, and dust. During an asthma attack, the muscles surrounding the windpipes in the lungs go into spasm and constrict, which makes it difficult for the individual to breathe. Some of the common symptoms of Asthma are coughing and wheezing, breathlessness, and having a tight chest. ​Most people with asthma carry medication with them in the form of an inhaler, with the blue coloured inhaler being usually for 'emergency' use. 

 

RECOGNISING AN ASTHMA ATTACK

The following are signs of a person may show when having an Asthma Attack:

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheezy breath sounds 

• Difficulty speaking 

• Pale, clammy skin

• Grey or blue lips and skin (if the attack is very severe)

• Use of muscles in the neck and upper chest when breathing

• Exhaustion in a severe attack

• May become unconscious and stop breathing in a prolonged attack

 

WHAT TO DO IN AN ASTHMA ATTACK?

1. Sit up straight and remain calm.

2. Take one puff of your reliever inhaler every 30-60 seconds- up to 10 puffs.

3. If you feel worse or do not feel any better after 10 puffs- call 999 for an ambulance.

4. Repeat step 2 after 15 minutes whilst waiting for an ambulance. 

 

An upright sitting position usually helps the casualty to breathe more easily

 

How to prevent an Asthma attack

To reduce the risk of having an Asthma attack you should:

• Try to avoid any triggers wherever possible.

• Take all your medicines as prescribed and follow your asthma action plan.

• Check with your GP that you are using your inhaler properly.

• Have regular reviews with your GP (at least once a year).

 

FIRST AID TRAINING

If you would like to cover the topic of Asthma on a First Aid course you should take the Level 3 Paediatric First Aid (RQF) or the Level 3 First Aid at Work (RQF) course. Additionally, if you would like to add on the topic of Asthma to your First Aid course, such as the 1-day Emergency First Aid Course let us know and we can arrange this add on. 

 

If you need any help with deciding which course is suitable for you or help with booking on one of our courses, please get in touch with us today.