As with many chronic illnesses, most of what you can do to fight the condition is to prepare for it before it hits. Seeing your doctor about what to do and how to medicate the condition is the first step.

In terms of knowing what to do during an attack, here’s a quick run-down:

  1. If the attack has been triggered by something specific (e.g., an allergen), get away from it ASAP.
  2. If possible, get the attention of someone who can help.
  3. Sit upright, as this will help air circulate in your lungs more easily.
  4. Take long, slow, steady breaths.
  5. Take one or two deep breaths of your inhaler, and wait at least one minute to see if the attack is calming down before taking another puff. Your doctor will help you decide just how many doses are correct for you, but usually the maximum number of puffs per day is eight to 10.
  6. Continue to breathe as calmly as possible. Call an ambulance or a cab to the hospital if symptoms continue.

If your attack has successfully faded with medication and time, then the next step is to relax and soothe yourself. Basically, just take it easy for a few days.

Booking an asthma review with your doctor or nurse soon after will also help.

Not every asthma reaction is a full-blown attack, but reactions still need to be medicated. If you haven’t spoken to your doctor about managing attacks, then heading to your local hospital during a reaction or attack is vital.

Above all else, the No. 1 thing to do during an asthma attack is to stay calm. That’s way easier said than done, I know, but it’s worth practicing in advance.

Think about what you could focus on during your next possible attack, plan out what will soothe you, and practice taking deep, slow breaths.

Asthma is a serious condition, but it’s easily treated. Either way, get medical help and just tell yourself that you will be OK.

For more information on asthma, check out the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Global Asthma Network.

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