An asthma attach occurs when the lungs react to different outside influences such as pollen, dust or other allergens. The bronchial tubes in the lungs begin to contract preventing oxygen from entering or leaving the lungs. During the initial stages, oxygen is let in; however, carbon dioxide is not let out. During the onset of the attack, wheezing becomes very tight and the sufferer must use neck and torso muscles for assistance in breathing. Breathing becomes very labor intensive and difficult. Generally, shortness of breath, wheezing and an increase of sputum are all indications that an asthma attack is about to occur.
Stay Calm
Using a calm and relaxing voice, tell the person that you will be assisting him.
Position the Victim
Sit the asthmatic person in an upright position. With the person seated in a chair or on the ground, loosen any restrictive clothing.
Ask if the asthma victim has a medical identification card or tags.
Medication
Ask the person to nod yes if she has asthma medication on her person. Assist her with taking a puff every one minute until her breathing improves. If medication is not available and the person is unable to breath, call for an ambulance or have a bystander call 911. Never leave the asthma victim alone.
Pursed Lip Breathing
Encourage pursed lip breathing. People with breathing problems as well as runners use this breathing method.
Breathe with the asthma victim, encouraging him to slowly exhale with his lips in a pursed position. This method increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the body and is very useful during an asthma attack.
