Signs Of An Asthma Attack – Forbes Health - Forbes

"An asthma attack is a flare-up or exacerbation of one's asthma," says Kendra Hammond, M.D., a pulmonologist at MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center in Sioux City, Iowa. "Asthma is a disease of the airways of the lungs, especially of the smaller airways in the periphery of the lungs. During an attack, these airways narrow, making it difficult to exhale."

The airways are lined with smooth muscle, and in people who suffer from asthma, this muscle can tighten up or spasm when exposed to certain triggers. The resulting narrowing of the airways makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs and can lead to symptoms of asthma—shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing.

In severe cases, the airways can become so constricted that not enough oxygen makes it into the bloodstream, and the person may experience a blue tinge to their lips or skin (cyanosis). This is a medical emergency, and you should call 911 immediately.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by several things, including (but not limited to):

  • Allergens (such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander or mold)
  • Respiratory infections (such as the common cold)
  • Exercise
  • Cold or dry air
  • Emotional stress
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Cigarette smoke

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An asthma attack can come on gradually or suddenly and may or may not be preceded by warning signs. It's important to be aware of both the warning signs and the symptoms of an asthma attack so that you can seek treatment promptly and avoid a potentially life-threatening situation.

There are often warning signs that an asthma attack is about to occur. According to Dr. Hammond, these include:

  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Difficulty catching your breath

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