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Managing an Asthma Attack
Watch for clues that an asthma attack is coming:
Cough, increased respiratory rate, difficulty breathing, decreased activity, feelings of chest tightness, and/or wheezing. Signs of severe distress are difficulty speaking, "retractions" (when spaces between ribs or around collar bones sink in when child breathes in); face, lips, or fingernails have pale or bluish color. Call the physician's office if your child has signs of respiratory distress, or call 911, or go to emergency room.
Then, do these things:
- Give rescue medicine right away.
- Have your child sit down, breathe slowly and relax. Watch your child.
- If symptoms worsen after giving the prescribed rescue medicines according to the written asthma plan call your physician.
- If necessary, rescue medicine may need to be given every 20-30 minutes for up to 3 doses.
Is your child better?
- Breathing is slower and easier, cough is better
- Child can speak without gasping for air
- Retractions gone
- Face, lips and fingernails have normal color again
- Continue to give medications as directed on your asthma plan/physician
Is your child worse?
- Breathing is difficult, noisy and fast
- The nose flares out when your child breathes
- Retractions remain or worsen
- Child has trouble walking or talking
- Face, lips or fingernails turn gray or blue
If any of these are happening: Call 911.
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