Clear the air: Asthma First Aid Management

Written By Nicole

What is asthma?



Asthma is a disorder of the smaller airways of the lungs. Those with asthma have sensitive airways which can narrow when exposed to certain triggers, leading to difficulty in breathing.


Common Triggers

  • Pollens

  • Cold/Flu - respiratory infection

  • Smoke

  • Dust

  • Dust mites

  • Moulds

  • Cold air

  • Exercise

  • Certain medications

  • Food & Additives

  • Animals

  • Deodorant & Perfumes

  • Chemicals

  • Emotions like stress

Signs and Symptoms of an Asthma Attack

  • Dry, irritating, persistent cough, particularly at night or early morning, with exercise or activity

  • Chest tightness

  • Shortness of breath

  • Wheeze (high pitched whistling sound during breathing)

Signs and Symptoms of a Severe Asthma Attack

  • Gasping for breath (with or without wheezing)

  • Inability to speak more than 1 - 2 words per breath

  • Severe chest tightness

  • Blue around the lips

  • Pale and sweaty skin

  • Anxious

First Aid Management

If the casualty has an Asthma Action Plan, follow it.

If they don’t have:

  • Sit them comfortably upright and don’t leave them alone

  • Give 4 separate puffs of a reliever inhaler, one puff at a time via a spacer

  • Get them to take 4 breaths from the spacer after each puff

  • Wait 4 minutes

  • If there is little or no improvement give another 4 puffs

  • If there is still no improvement, call 000 immediately

  • Keep giving 4 puffs every 4 minutes until the ambulance arrives

The information provided in this blog offers general insights only. It is important to note that this content is not intended to serve as medical advice and if you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 000 immediately.

References

Guideline 9.2.5 - First Aid for Asthma, The Australian Resuscitation Council

It’s not just the puffer, Asthma Australia

Nicole
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