An asthma attack is a breathing difficulty caused by inflammation and contraction of the smooth muscle fibres in the bronchioles (small airways), leading to a sudden narrowing of their diameter.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects a very large number of people of all ages. Its prevalence is on the rise, particularly in urban and industrialised areas.
People with asthma often carry medication in the form of a metered-dose inhaler (spray), which they use during an attack to bring it under control. These medicines cause the small airways to widen, making it easier to breathe.
Causes
In people with asthma, an asthma attack can be triggered by certain contributing factors such as:
- contact with an allergen (animal hair, pollen, etc.);
- a respiratory infection;
- certain medicines, such as aspirin;
- smoke, pollution or an irritant gas;
- climate variations;
- effort;
- intense emotion, anxiety or distress.
People with asthma can reduce the frequency of attacks by managing their environment and minimising their exposure to asthma triggers.
Risks & Consequences
An asthma attack makes breathing difficult and causes respiratory distress. When an attack occurs, the person affected can use medication. Asthma medication relaxes the smooth muscle fibres in the bronchioles and allows air to flow through to the alveoli. This makes it easier for the person to breathe.
Signs
The symptoms appear in a person who is often known to have asthma.
In its severe form, a life-threatening emergency presents as a conscious patient who is extremely distressed, complaining of difficulty breathing, refusing to lie down and asking to remain seated. On examination, the following may be observed:
- the victim’s inability to speak;
- a commotion;
- a wheeze when breathing out.
Ultimately, we are faced with a patient suffering from respiratory distress.
If treatment is not provided promptly – or, in some cases, abruptly – the victim may lose consciousness and suffer a cardiac arrest.
In its mildest form, the conscious victim complains of moderate breathing difficulties, without any significant change in respiratory rate.
Principle of emergency response
The rescue operation must ensure that:
- to help the victim breathe;
- help the victim to take their medication;
- Seek medical advice in all cases.