An asthma attack isn’t a pleasant experience. Your chest tightens, your breath quickens, and you feel a heavy pressure on your thorax.
When an asthma attack occurs, the bronchial tubes are obstructed. As a result, the air passages become narrower, which makes breathing significantly more difficult.
Thankfully, our bodies send us early warnings of a flare-up. By paying attention to asthma attack signs, it’s possible to help prevent one or at least bring it under control a lot more easily.
In this article, we’ll review the symptoms of an imminent asthma attack to make sure you’re prepared. Read on!
The Signs and Symptoms of an Imminent Asthma Attack:
Tiredness
Are you feeling more tired than usual? It could signal that an asthma attack is rearing its head. Your body has to do extra work due to the impending flare-up and it translates as fatigue.
It can also manifest as lower stamina in physical activities. You might notice that you need to take more breaks and that your performances are not up to your standards.
Peak Flow Drop
In the days before asthma symptoms occur, it’s not uncommon to notice your peak flow numbers start to go down. This drop is a sign that inflammation in the lungs has already started.
Your asthma action plan should include instructions on what to do when a drop in peak flow happens, such as additional medication to take or in what scenario to call your doctor.
Itchy Chin
An itchy chin is a fairly common warning sign that an attack is going to take place. This asthma symptom can manifest days before the attack. It sometimes happens in conjunction with an itchy neck.
Changing Moods
Some people experience changes in moods before an asthma attack occurs. They tend to feel more moody or irritable.
Trouble Sleeping
As mentioned previously, the body has to work overtime before an attack to account for inflammation in the lungs. It can cause trouble sleeping and you might wake up coughing.
What to Do When Feeling Asthma Attack Signs?
You can take a look at the best medication options to prevent a crisis. In general, it helps to remain calm and take your medications as recommended by your allergist.
You should also ensure that you have an up-to-date asthma action plan that you can follow when symptoms occur.
Asthma attacks are often treated via an inhaler that contains quick-relief medications. These medications include rapid-onset beta2-agonist and anticholinergic bronchodilators. In simpler terms, they relax the airway muscles.
When the symptoms are stronger or won’t go away, systemic corticosteroids may be used to reduce airway inflammation.
If the symptoms persist, the best course of action is to see your allergist and seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Catch the Signs Early
Early asthma attack signs allow you to take preventive measures and not be taken by surprise when an attack happens.
It’s important to pay attention to your body when it displays these symptoms. Follow the recommendations in your asthma action plan and you should be able to curb most serious asthma attacks.
Visit our Lifestyle section for more helpful tips on how to keep healthy.
Read Also:
