Keep them calm while you wait for the paramedics to arrive. Encourage them to sit up straight, breathe slowly and continue to use their inhaler if it helps. If the person has mild symptoms and can speak and move around, you can try to alleviate their symptoms without calling for help.
Difficulty speaking Difficulty breathing Wheezing Coughing Distress or panic Blue tinge to their lips or beneath their fingernails
Avoid saying anything that may make the person more afraid, like, “I don’t know what to do!” If you stay calm, you’ll help the victim feel calmer.
Approach the person and say something like, “Hi, my name is Tom. I noticed you may be having some trouble. I’d like to help, if I can. Can I offer any assistance?” Ask permission before touching the person. Say, “I’m going to help you sit down, is it okay if I hold your arm?”
Be aware that a person may have more than one inhaler or other type of medication. Some medications are used for “maintenance” (everyday use to reduce or prevent asthma symptoms), while others are quick-acting “rescue” medications intended to relieve an asthma attack in progress. [6] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source If the person is able, have them tell you (or point out) which medication they use for an emergency. Many asthma patients carry an instructions card with their inhaler. Look for this. It can help you know what to do, even if the person can’t speak.
Help the person take 1-2 puffs from their inhaler every 2 minutes. Do this until their symptoms get better, or until they have had 10 puffs. [7] X Research source If emergency medical services haven’t arrived after 15 minutes, repeat this process. Using their own inhaler is ideal, but using someone else’s inhaler may be better than having no medicine at all. If they don’t have their inhaler but you do or someone else does, it’s okay to use that inhaler in an emergency.
Ask the person if there is anything you can do to help them. They may have a plan or be able to instruct you. [9] X Research source Suggest that they try to meditate, or lead them through a calming meditation. [10] X Research source
Firmly hold their arm and try to lead them to a seated position. Place your palm on their back over their spine and use gentle pressure to encourage them to sit up straight. Do not push, shove, or handle the person roughly.
Help them breathe in to the count of 4 and breathe out to the count of 6. Count out loud and breathe along with them. Show them how to purse their lips while breathing out to slow down their exhalation.
If you’re helping a stranger, suggest they loosen their clothing. If it’s a family member, it’s okay to do it for them. In an emergency, don’t be afraid to help as much as possible.
If you cannot move the person, have them breathe through a scarf or sleeve to minimize how much irritant they inhale. Asthma attacks can also happen without a trigger. [16] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
