Respond Quickly to Your Warning Signs of an Asthma Episode

Most asthma episodes or attacks start slowly. Most people can tell when an asthma episode is coming. You can often stop an asthma episode when you catch it early and take your medicine. If you fail to do this, your symptoms may get worse. Learn what your warning signs are. Make a plan with your doctor or nurse about what to do when you notice your warning signs.

Warning signs that you may have before an asthma episode.

• Drop in peak flow rate
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in your chest
• Wheezing
• Faster breathing
• Itchy or sore throat

Talk with your doctor about your warning signs.

• Tell your doctor your warning signs.
• Plan what you should do when your warning signs occur. Follow the plan you and your doctor make. This often means taking your medicine and resting. By knowing what to do when you notice early warning signs, you will feel more in control.
• Ask about other times when you should take your medicine. This may be the first sign of a cold or flu. It may be before you exercise. Or it may be before you come into contact with something you're allergic to.

Ask your doctor about using a peak flow meter.

• A peak flow meter can tell you when an asthma episode is coming -- even before you feel symptoms. Taking medicine before you feel symptoms can stop the episode. People over age 4 with moderate or severe asthma should use a peak flow meter at least daily.

Source: National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute

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