It can be frightening to have an asthma attack.It can be frightening to see someone with an asthma attack.If they don't have their inhaler, the person may be panicked.You can help.Assist someone having an asthma attack by getting the appropriate medical assistance, helping them to remain calm, and using simple techniques to help improve their breathing.
Step 1: You can call an ambulance.
Call for help if the person loses consciousness, is struggling to breathe, or has their nails turn blue.If the person does not have their inhaler, you should call an ambulance if their symptoms get worse after ten puffs of the inhaler.You can stay by the victim if you call the ambulance or use a cell phone.You can take them to the hospital if you have a car.Wait for the paramedics to arrive and keep them calm.If it helps, encourage them to sit up straight and breathe slowly.If the person can speak and move around, you can try to alleviate their symptoms without calling for help.
Step 2: Understand an asthma attack.
If the symptoms are not severe enough to require immediate medical attention, you can communicate with the person to confirm that they are having an asthma attack.If you notice that the person is having trouble breathing, they are most likely having an asthma attack.If you don't know for sure that they have asthma, watch for signs and symptoms of an attack, such as: Difficulty speaking, whezing cough, and panic under their fingernails.
Step 3: Keep calm.
A person having an asthma attack may feel frightened.You need to remain calm.Take slow, deep breaths.Speak in a calm, firm voice, like, "I need you to sit upright and point to where your medicine is."
Step 4: The person wants help.
If you see a stranger having an asthma attack, don't assume they want your help.Quickly introduce yourself, and offer assistance.If they do not want your help, don't be offended.Ask what you can do for them if they do.Say something like, "Hello, my name is Tom."You might be having some trouble.I would like to help.Can I help you?Before touching the person, ask permission.Is it okay if I hold your arm?
Step 5: Ask about their plan.
Ask the person about their asthma action plan.Many people with asthma have a plan.They might be able to tell you how to help, when to get their medication, and if they should call for emergency services.They might be able to tell you what helped to relieve their symptoms in the past, such as going to a calm, cool area.
Step 6: Get the person's medication.
If you know where the person keeps their inhaler, get it as soon as possible.Ask the victim where their inhaler is kept.Tell them to point or write in the dirt if they can't speak.Like a family member, call someone who can help.A person may have more than one medication.Asthma symptoms can be reduced or prevented with some medications, while others are meant to relieve an asthma attack in progress.If the person is able to give you a description of which medication they use in an emergency.Asthma patients have an instructions card with them.Look for this.Even if the person can't speak, it can help you know what to do.
Step 7: If they can't do it on their own, help them with their medication.
Asthma patients know how to use their inhaler, so let them do it on their own.You can help if they are not calm.Don't use the inhaler if you shake it.The mouth of the inhaler should be between their lips.They can take a deep breath if you tell them when you give the medication.They should wait several seconds before giving the next dose.The person needs to take 1-2 puffs from their inhaler every 2 minutes.Until they have had 10 puffs, do this.If emergency medical services don't arrive within 15 minutes, repeat the process.It is best to use their own inhaler, but using someone else's may be better.It is okay to use the inhaler in an emergency if they do not have it.
Step 8: The person should be calm and reassured.
Staying calm will help keep the victim's muscles from getting tighter.Inform the person that help is on the way and that you are there to help.Stay nearby if you hold their hand.Speak in a calm voice.Ask the person if there is anything you can do to help.They may have a plan for you.Suggest that they try to relax.
Step 9: Allow them to sit upright.
Assist the person to sit up straight.They can breathe easier if they sit upright.Lying down makes breathing difficult.Tell the person what to do, such as, "Sit on the ground and sit up straight." If they are panicking and do not listen, try to gently guide them with your hands.Try to lead them to a seated position by holding their arm.Place your palm on their back to encourage them to sit up straight.Don't push, shove, or handle the person.
Step 10: They should take long, deep breaths.
When someone has trouble breathing, they may take short, gasping breaths.This can make them hyperventilate.The person should take long, deep breaths.This may be difficult for them, but encourage them to do it the best they can.Help them breathe in to the counts of 4 and 6.Take a deep breath and count out loud.Show them how to purse their lips.
Step 11: Limit any clothing.
If the person is wearing something that is restrictive, help them to loosen it.Do you think it is appropriate to touch the person or their clothing?Suggest they loosen their clothing if you are helping a stranger.It is okay to do it for a family member.Don't be afraid to help in an emergency.
Step 12: Move them away from the gun.
Chemicals, smoke, mold, pets, and sawdust can cause asthma attacks.If the attack seems to have been triggered by something in the environment, lead the person away from the scene.If you are in an enclosed pool or hot tub, keep them away from smoke, dust, and chemical smells.You can take them to an air conditioned space.If you can't move the person, have them breathe through a scarf or sleeve.There can be an asthma attack without atrigger.
Step 13: They can get hot coffee or tea.
Try giving them a cup of a hot, caffeinated beverage if their symptoms are not very severe and they are calm.For a short time, this may help open up their breathing pathways.Give them a couple of cups of coffee or tea.
Step 14: Get them to a hot room.
Bring the person to a bathroom filled with steam.If you want the room to steam up, close the door and have them take a hot shower.The heat and steam can loosen mucus in their lungs.