Signs of an Asthma Emergency
Asthma attacks can build slowly over time or come on suddenly. Every minute and second counts.
If you are experiencing a severe or life-threatening asthma attack, call an ambulance – Dial Triple Zero (000) and then start asthma first aid.
If you are experiencing a mild to moderate asthma attack, start asthma first aid.
Begin Asthma First Aid if a person has:
- Minor difficulty breathing
- May have a cough or soft wheeze
- Able to talk in full sentences
- Able to walk/move around
Call an ambulance (dial 000) if and when the situation becomes severe
- Obvious difficulty breathing
- Cannot speak a full sentence in one breath
- May have cough or wheeze
- Sucking in of skin over ribs/throat (tracheal tug)
- Reliever medication not lasting as long as usual
Life Threatening
- Gasping for breath, may no longer wheeze or cough
- May be confused or exhausted, distressed and panicky
- Pale/sweaty/blue lips
- Only able to speak a few words or can’t talk at all
- No response to reliever medication
Asthma First Aid
If you or someone you know is experiencing an asthma flare-up, even if only mild, commence Asthma First Aid immediately.
IMPORTANT: Not applicable to Bricanyl or SMART medication regimes. Speak to your GP or Asthma WA for further information.