If you’re having an acute asthma episode, contact your doctor IMMEDIATELYCommon signs of an acute asthma episode are:
- Your coughing and/or wheezing will not stop.
- You’re breathing very fast but can’t catch your breath (Tachypnea).
- Your chest feels tight.
- You’re feeling tired AND out of breath.
- You’re agitated and anxious.
- Your pulse rate has increased.
- You’ve got allergy-like symptoms, including but not limited to a runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, scratchy throat.
- Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath while you’re exercising or immediately afterward.
- You feel chest or abdominal pain.
Common signs and symptoms of increasing respiratory distress and acute breathing difficulty can include:
- Your inability to complete a sentence.
- You’re experiencing retractions (increased use of chest, neck, or abdominal muscles).
- You need to sit or lean forward in order breathe easier.
Make sure that you have an Asthma Action Plan in place so that you can successfully and efficiently regain control and normalize your breathing. Read Asthma Attack Action Plan – Are you prepared? as a primer if you haven’t set one up for yourself yet.
Also, be sure to read Asthma Triggers – Do you know what yours are?, Asthma Triggers – Is Your Home Causing Your Asthma?, Asthma and Outdoor Air Pollution in Southern California and Indoor Asthma Triggers – Asthma Proof Your Home if you’re unclear about your triggers or what you can do to help yourself.
The absolute best way to get through an acute asthma episode is to never have to deal with one. There is no reason why you can’t fully and confidently participate in the life of your choice. Camp, hike, bike, jog, ski, join sports leagues, take exercise classes. Just be sure you have planned ahead – just in case.
Baokhikhang says
Hi, Cody
I wake up frequently at night because cought. If i have asthma?
Cody Wells says
Hi Baokhikhang,
Thank you for dropping by. I’m sorry for your coughing troubles! Unfortunately, since I’m not a doctor or health practitioner of any kind, I am definitely not the right person to ask.
I would recommend you visit a doctor as soon as possible and describe your symptoms to them. Hopefully, after a thorough analysis, they will be able to zero in on the problem and give you some relief!
Thanks again for dropping by and good luck with your cough!
~Cody
lisa tuminello says
My mom went to the doctor the other day. She has asthma. She was having trouble with dee breaths. The doctor said her lungs were clear and her oxygen level (that thing you put on your finger) was good. She’s been under a lot of stress lately. Could stress be the reason? What can we do about that? Muscle relaxer? Thank you so much
Cody Wells says
Hi Lisa,
I’m very sorry for your mom’s struggles! Unfortunately, I am not a doctor or a medical practitioner of any kind, so I’m not sure I can be of much help to you or your mom.
During these very difficult times, I’m not sure if you will be able to reach out and speak with her regular doctor/medical practitioner, but that would be my suggestion as the place to start.
I am glad to hear her lungs and oxygen level are fine!
I’m sure I haven’t been very helpful, but I hope you are able to help get your mother some relief!
Good luck, be safe and thanks for dropping by!
~Cody