Asthma
Asthma
Asthma is a lung condition which can cause problems with breathing. It can be triggered by a variety of things: infections, stress, dust, pollen, smoke, or exercise. It is also useful to note that cold air can worsen an asthma attack.
It can be very distressing for someone having an asthma attack, so it is helpful to be reassuring and calm.
Signs & Symptoms
During an asthma attack the casualty will have difficulty breathing and will struggle to speak. This is because their neck and chest muscles are working hard to breathe.
There may also be a wheezy sound coming from their chest or they may be coughing.
Skin may be pale and clammy progressing to grey or blue lips.
Treatment
Sit the casualty up.
Help them to use their reliever inhaler, which is usually blue. A spacer device can be used if available.
Try to calm the casualty.
Call 999/112 if there is no inhaler or no improvement.
