Asthma can be a sneaky foe, lurking in the background and catching you off guard when you least expect it. While many people manage their symptoms at home, there are critical moments when that trusty inhaler just won’t cut it. If you or a loved one suffer from asthma, knowing when to head to the emergency room could be a lifesaver. Here are seven signs that you need to act fast!.
What is Asthma?
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH) “Asthma is a (long-term) condition that affects the airways in the lungs. The airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. If you have asthma, your airways can become inflamed and narrowed at times. This makes it harder for air to flow out of your airways when you breathe out.”
About 1 in 13 people in the United States have asthma, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It affects people of all ages and often starts during childhood. Certain things, such as pollen, exercise, viral infections, or cold air, can set off or worsen asthma symptoms. These are called asthma triggers. When get worse, you can experience an asthma attack.
There is no cure for asthma, but treatment and an asthma action plan can help you manage the condition. The plan may include monitoring, avoiding triggers, and using medicines.
Is Your Asthma Acting Up? 7 Signs You Need to Rush to the ER NOW!
1. Wheezing That Won’t Quit
Wheezing can be a normal part of asthma, but if you find yourself wheezing continuously, it might be time to seek help. If your breathing sounds like a whistle, and it’s persistent, don’t take it lightly!
2. Inhaler Isn’t Working
You just took a puff, and yet you still feel like you’re gasping for air. If your inhaler isn’t providing relief, it’s a clear signal that you need immediate medical attention. This could indicate a severe asthma attack that requires professional care.
3. Blue Lips or Fingertips
This is a classic warning sign! If you notice a bluish tint to your lips or fingertips, your body isn’t getting enough oxygen. This is a serious condition and warrants a trip to the ER without delay.
4. Rapid Breathing or Heart Rate
If you’re breathing more than 30 times a minute or your heart is racing like you’ve just run a marathon, it’s time to take action. These symptoms can signify that your asthma is escalating, and medical intervention is necessary.
5. Difficulty Speaking or Performing Simple Tasks
If you’re struggling to speak in full sentences or can’t complete simple tasks without pausing to catch your breath, don’t wait! This indicates that your asthma is severely affecting your ability to breathe.
6. Feeling Anxious or Confused
When your oxygen levels drop, it can affect your brain. If you start to feel anxious, confused, or dizzy, don’t brush it off. These can be signs of a serious asthma attack, and it’s time to get help.
7. Persistent Coughing or Chest Pain
A persistent cough that doesn’t go away or chest pain that intensifies can indicate a worsening condition. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to seek emergency care.
Don’t Wait – Act Now!
Managing asthma can be challenging, but being informed is your best defense. Always keep your inhaler on hand, stay aware of your symptoms, and don’t ignore the warning signs. Stay safe, and breathe easy!
Our highly trained medical staff is ready to provide fast, expert Asthma care 24/7. We’re here to help you recover quickly and safely. No long wait times, no hassle, just quality care when you need it most.
Surepoint Emergency Center is a modern emergency medical facility open 24/7. As an alternative to the traditional hospital ER experience, we offer convenience and minimal wait time, along with highly-trained emergency medical staff and state-of-the-art equipment.
Our top priority is bringing high-quality emergency care, quickly and easily to your family. We are committed to making patients feel better faster in a comforting and compassionate environment.
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