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During An Asthma Attack
Download the asthma care plan (PDF). |
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What happens during an asthma attack? |
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Children with asthma have acute episodes when the air passages in their lungs become narrower, and breathing becomes more difficult. These problems are caused by an over-sensitivity of the lungs and airways.
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- The lungs and airways overreact to certain triggers causing:
- the lining of the airways to become inflamed and swollen.
- tightening of the muscles that surround the airways.
- an increased production of mucus.
- Breathing becomes harder and may hurt.
- There may be coughing.
- There may be a wheezing or whistling sound, which is typical of asthma. Wheezing occurs because of the rush of air which moves through the narrowed airways.
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If a child does not receive treatment immediately during an asthma attack, respiratory failure may occur.
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