Warning Signs Of An Acute Asthma Attack

Wheezing And Coughing

Wheezing, when breathing makes a high-pitched whistling sound, and coughing can occur during an asthma attack. Wheezing is often associated with allergies, and it can occur in allergy-triggered asthma attacks. Having a respiratory infection increases an individual's chance of having an acute asthma attack that causes wheezing. Coughing is an indication of an acute asthma attack, and it's especially common at night. Asthma causes the lungs to become swollen and inflamed. Since the breathing tubes tighten, the body is more likely to react to irritants like allergens, pollutants, and stress. When individuals cough, their body is trying to get rid of the particles causing irritation. Different patients may find asthma-related coughing is triggered by different things. Because of this, individuals need to pay attention to when they cough and how severe the cough is. Doing so can help patients identify triggers to avoid and make a more refined treatment plan with their doctor.

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Sweaty And Pale Face

A sweaty and pale face during an asthma attack is a sign the attack is severe enough to be life-threatening. Even if patients think the paleness and sweat are caused by something else, they should seek emergency treatment anyway. It's better to err on the side of caution. Patients experiencing severe asthma symptoms won't be able to do regular activities. They should not try to drive themselves to the emergency room. Individuals might feel panic or anxiety, another asthma attack symptom, alongside a sweaty and pale face. While shortness of breath can lead to increased stress, it doesn't usually bring on feelings of panic unless the body believes it's in danger. An inability to exhale fully is a sign of an emergency, as it may indicate a patient has air leaking into other parts of their body. Being unable to catch a breath, breathing extremely rapidly, and being unable to stop coughing are also serious warning signs. Severe wheezing in and out is cause for emergency treatment as well.

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