Asthma Attacks Emergency Room in Houston
Asthma attacks can be quite common, with millions of Americans suffering from this chronic respiratory condition. In fact, asthma is the leading cause of school absenteeism in children and adults in the United States, with the average high school student missing as many as 5 days of school each year due to asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Asthma attacks can also occur at any time – even while you’re sleeping – and can make it difficult to breathe normally even if you’re not experiencing an obvious asthma attack.
Before Visiting the ER
If you or a loved one is suffering from an asthma attack, do not panic. Asthma attacks are treatable and reversible when properly handled. Here are some steps you can take at home before visiting a medical center
While Visiting the ER
If you or a loved one needs to visit an emergency room, you should plan ahead. You may want to call and ask if there is a dedicated asthma treatment area. You can also make sure that you take your medicine with you—even if it’s been prescribed by your doctor. Many places also recommend scheduling an appointment before visiting. If you do get an asthma attack while at a hospital, stay calm and follow all instructions from doctors and nurses. Never leave or skip treatments without talking to a medical professional first. That said, if the asthma attack is extremely severe, it’s okay to ask for help immediately. If your symptoms start to get worse or feel more serious than before, let someone know right away so that they can help monitor you better.
After Visiting the ER
Asthma attacks are caused by overactive muscles around your airways. When you inhale, these muscles should relax to allow air into your lungs, but when you have asthma they don’t. As a result, lung tissues become inflamed and swell, making it more difficult to breathe. Asthma is commonly triggered by allergies or irritants in the environment. When outside, stay indoors as much as possible and bring an inhaler with you wherever you go (to work or play). Also, try to avoid triggers such as cigarette smoke and perfumes; consider keeping a log of triggers that affect your asthma symptoms so that you can take action during an attack.
