how to treat asthma
Asthma is a condition where the airways of the patient are sensitive and become narrow in reaction to triggers, making it harder to breathe. The three main causes are the inside lining of the airways becoming inflamed (red and swollen); extra mucus being produced, and blocking the airways; or the muscles around the airways squeezing tight, aka bronchoconstriction. 1 in 10 people in Australia have asthma and it affects people of all ages.
The symptoms of an asthma attack include:
In the event of someone having an asthma attack follow these steps, also known as the 4 x 4 First Aid Plan.
This is a British video, so call 000 instead of 999.
The symptoms of an asthma attack include:
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- chest tightness
- a dry, irritating and continual cough
In the event of someone having an asthma attack follow these steps, also known as the 4 x 4 First Aid Plan.
- Sit the person upright. Be calm and reassuring, and do not leave the patient alone
- Give 4 puffs of blue reliever puffer medication - use a spacer if there is one, shake the puffer, put one puff into the spacer, take 4 breaths from the spacer. Repeat four times
- Wait four minutes and if there is no improvement repeat step 2.
- If there is still no improvement, call 000 and keep giving 4 puffs every 4 minutes until the ambulance arrives.
This is a British video, so call 000 instead of 999.