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LIVING WITH ASTHMA

THE 5-STEP RULE FOR ASTHMA ATTACKS

Having an Asthma attack – THE 5-STEP RULE

Asthma symptoms could be developing over a few days, and having an attack could happen very quickly. Therefore, it is important not to ignore any symptoms to keep your Asthma under control. 3,5,8

Because an Asthma attack can be frightening, you must take immediate action. Don’t be scared to create a fuss, no matter what time of the day or night.

Follow these 5 steps immediately, or follow the instructions in your Asthma Action Plan on which medication to take and how much. 5

Friends grabbing each others hands

The 5-Step Rule

Take 2 puffs of reliever inhaler, 1 puff at a time.
Sit up and stay calm.
Take slow breaths.

If there is no improvement, take 1 puff of reliever inhaler every minute. Adults can take up to 10 puffs in 10 minutes, and children up to 6 puffs in 10 minutes.

Call an emergency number or an ambulance if your symptoms do not improve after 10 minutes or if you are worried. Repeat step 4 if the ambulance does not arrive in 10 minutes.

Always remember!

Use a spacer if possible.
If you’re having an attack, don’t lie
down and don’t let anyone
put their arms around you.

Reliever Reliance

Are you over-reliant on your blue reliever inhaler? Complete the Reliever Over-Reliance Test to find out.