Asthma

TL;DR

Chronic respiratory condition marked by airway inflammation and difficulty breathing.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Triggers for asthma attacks include allergens, exercise, cold air, and stress. Management involves avoiding known triggers and using medications such as inhalers.

During an asthma attack, reliever inhalers provide quick relief by relaxing the muscles around the airways, while preventer inhalers reduce inflammation and should be used regularly as prescribed. In case of an asthma attack, the 4x4x4 technique (1 puff, 4 breaths, 4 times, 4 minutes) can be used .

First Aid for Asthma

• Help the casualty to sit upright and stay calm
• Use their prescribed asthma inhaler
• Give four puffs of the inhaler, wait four minutes, and repeat if necessary
• Call emergency services if the casualty does not improve

Takeaway to remember

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing them to swell and narrow, and produce extra mucus. This leads to difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air, or stress.

Reference

• First Aid eBook