Asthma Attack First Aid Procedures
Anyone with asthma can experience an asthma attack anytime and anywhere. An asthma attack can be alarming especially when the victim least expects it and is caught off guard. An asthma attack is caused by contraction of the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchial tubes, which constrict opening of the airways resulting to lung inflammation. This is usually characterized by wheezing, tightening of the chest, wheezing or heavy breathing.
When such a condition strikes, it is important to give the victim immediate asthma attack first aid remedy. There are a number of ways to perform an asthma attack first aid. First, you should move the victim from the source of the asthma attack. Possible causes of an asthma attack include allergens such as food, smoke, pollen in air or on skin as well as other strong odors. Make sure that the victim is calm and in an upright sitting position.
An asthma attack first aid remedy is best administered with a rescue inhaler. So if the victim has not used an inhaler yet, assist him or her with the apparatus. Remember to always use a rescue inhaler that is prescribed to the victim and not of someone else. If, however, there is no inhaler available in the event of the asthma attack or if there is no improvement in the symptoms after giving the inhaler, then you may want to apply steam on the victim as well. The use of steam can be good alternative to common asthma attack first aid procedures and is usually done by having the victim inhale steam from very hot water. Assist the victim with his breathing, puckering his or her lips when s/he exhales.
Simple asthma attack first aid procedures may not be enough for severe cases and should be given emergency medical assistance. Moreover, remember to schedule an appointment with your physician for an asthma review following the asthma attack, preferably within two days of the attack. To better control the symptoms of your asthma, another review is recommended within two weeks after the asthma attack as well.
Keep in mind that asthma attack first aid procedures are only administered when necessary and should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment. It is always best to seek professional medical advice otherwise the condition may get worse. When this happens, no amount of asthma attack first aid remedy may be able to improve the symptoms anymore, should the situation occur again.
