How to Handle an Asthma Attack Without an Inhalor

Asthma attacks can be triggered by either respiratory illness or external factors like cigarette smoke. While some coping strategies may help during an acute asthma attack, there is no substitute for proper medical treatment -- especially if your asthma is severe. Severe asthma attacks may restrict the amount of oxygen getting to your vital organs, which will cause them to shut down and may lead to death.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify what triggered your attack and separate yourself from it, if possible.

• 2

  Stay calm and sit down, bending slightly forward.

• 3

  Use pursed-lip breathing: exhale slowly and completely through pursed lips, like blowing out a candle, and inhale using slow, deep breaths.

• 4

  Relax your body. Tensing your muscles may propagate shallow, rapid breathing.

• 5

  Check your peak flow meter to access the severity of your attack.

• 6

  Call 911 if your breathing does not improve. If you are not able to speak, signal someone to help by waving your arms or showing them your medical ID bracelet.