Asthma Attack

You can usually tell when your asthma symptoms are getting worse than usual. People who have asthma attacks describe it as feeling like someone is sitting on their chest or feeling like they can’t get a good breath. Only you know what’s normal for you and what’s not.

Some people have warning signs of an attack that build up. This could include needing to use their rescue medication more frequently or not being able to exercise as they normally do. For others, their symptoms come on faster without warning.

Talk to your healthcare provider about an asthma action plan. This outlines what you should do if you have an asthma attack.

How do healthcare providers diagnose an asthma attack?

Talk to your healthcare provider about your asthma symptoms and any asthma attacks you have. They’ll likely be able to confirm an asthma attack by listening to how you describe your symptoms and ordering a few tests. These tests include:

Peak flow: A peak flow is a measurement of how fast you can blow air out of your lungs. It tells healthcare providers how open your airways are.
Spirometry: This test measures how much air goes in and out of your lungs.
Pulse oximetry: This test measures your blood oxygen level using a device that lightly clamps your finger.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Request an appointment

Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.