Asthma symptoms

I was diagnosed with Asthma almost 35 years ago. I can tell you from personal experience having an Asthma attack is one of the most frightening things that I have ever been through.

Every person is built different and while all Asthma sufferers may have the same symptoms, the attack itself will differ from person to person. In my case my attacks either generally occur in the night while I am sleeping or they are triggered by one of my many allergies. The first thing that I notice is my chest tightens up. Next I have the feeling that I am starting to struggle to breath. At first I would describe it like someone sitting a good sized rock on your chest, then later it feels like they are also holding their hand over your mouth and nose. The longer the attack last the worse the symptoms get. I don't usually wheeze until my attack is well underway.

I keep a rescue inhaler in several different places. One I keep on me at all times, one I keep on my nigh stand and others I have stored throughout my house and car. I also take Singular daily. In rare cases I am forced to go to the local ER for a nebulizer treatment. I no longer have a portable nebulizer at home as I have been fortunate enough not to need it in the year or so. Usually I can control my Asthma with my daily medication and my rescue inhaler.

Here are some other tips for those who may be experiencing their first Asthma attack. Drinking a hot beverage such as coffee or tea sometimes help relax the bronchial tubes. I have also used the old steamy bathroom trick. This really only works in cases where the attack is not too bad and the bathroom is small enough to steam up quickly.