What to Do if a Child Has an Asthma Attack
Occasionally an asthma attack may occur no matter how careful you are about taking your asthma treatment and avoiding triggers. An asthma attack normally doesn't occur suddenly; most people find that asthma attacks are the result of a gradual worsening of symptoms over a few days. If your symptoms are getting worse, do not ignore them. Quite often using your reliever may be all that is needed to get your asthma under control again. At other times symptoms are more severe and more urgent action is required.
The Five Step RuleThe Five Step Rule contains the recommended steps to follow during an asthma attack. 1. Take two puffs of reliever inhaler (usually blue) immediately
Don't put your arms around the child having the attack - this will restrict their breathing. Don't worry about giving too much reliever - during an asthma attack extra puffs of reliever medication are safe. Do use a spacer device if one is avalable. Do listen to what the child having the attack is saying - they have probably had attacks before.
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If you are admitted to hospital or an accident and emergency department because of your asthma, take details of your treatment with you. Bring your asthma management plan if you have one to the hospital.
You should also make an appointment with your doctor or nurse after you are discharged from hospital, so that you can review your asthma treatment to avoid the situation rising again.
Download your Asthma Attack Card Here
To order an Asthma Attack Card directly, please contact the Asthma Society of Ireland on 01 8178886 or by email office@asthmasociety.ie
