Treatment of an asthma episode

Work with your doctor to develop an emergency plan when your asthma flare-up. be sure you know what to do at home, where to go if more help is needed, what to take with you (like your list of medicines and diary), and what to say. Don’t be scared to take charge ad make sure you or your child gets help right away.

When an Asthma Episode Occurs:

• Keep calm and relaxed.
• Proceed with your management plan.
• Measure your peak flow.
• Use your medications as directed by your doctor.
• Check to see if your peak flow readings and your other symptoms improve.

Do Not Do the Following:

• Do not drink a lot of water.
• Do not breathe warm, moist air from the shower.
• Do not rebreathe into a paper bag held over the nose.
• Do not use over-the –counter cold remedies without first calling your doctor.

GET IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:

• Symptoms do not get better or get worse after bronchodilator is given.
• You are having trouble breathing (chest and neck are being pulled in with every breath, or hunching or lifting up of the shoulders).
• You are having trouble walking or talking, or finishing your activity (a child may stop playing and not be able to start again).
• The peak flow reading dops and does not improve after treatment, or if the peak flow reading drops to half of your child’s personal best.
• Lips or fingernails are grey or blue (GO TO THE NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM RIGHT AWAY).