Key points
- Needing your reliever inhaler more and more is a red flag.
- Sit the person up and follow their action plan while you wait.
- Blue lips or unable to speak: call 14.
A reliever inhaler usually eases an asthma attack within minutes. When you need it more and more often, the asthma is becoming unstable.
Signs that asthma is getting worse
- Needing the reliever several times a day or at night.
- Night-time cough, waking up breathless.
- Trouble finishing a sentence, walking — or playing, for a child.
- Little improvement after the usual puffs.
While waiting for the doctor
Sit the person upright, stay calm, use a spacer if they have one and follow the action plan their doctor prescribed. Air the room and keep smoke, perfume and dust away.
Bluish lips, exhaustion, unable to speak: call the Civil Protection (14) immediately. Don't drive yourself.
After the attack, a consultation helps review the long-term treatment: well-controlled asthma should almost never wake you at night.
Frequently asked questions
How many puffs of reliever can you take?
Follow the written action plan from your doctor. If the attack doesn't ease despite it, call a doctor or 14.
Reviewed by the Doctor Darna medical team
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. In a life-threatening emergency, call 14.
