How to treat an asthma flare up at home?

When my chest starts wheezing, I just sit upright like a statue and reach for my inhaler. Trying to lie down during a flare-up is the biggest mistake you can make.

Use your reliever inhaler (usually blue) immediately. Take 2 to 6 puffs, waiting a minute between each, and if the tightness doesn't go away in 10 minutes, get to an emergency room.

During a flare-up, you must follow the personalized Asthma Action Plan given by your pulmonologist. Home remedies cannot replace a rescue inhaler when your airways are constricted.

Make sure you sit upright on a comfortable chair and loosen any tight clothing around your neck. Keep the windows shut if there is dust or smoke outside that is triggering the attack.

I had a bad scare last week and realized that taking slow, deep belly breaths really helps control the panic. Keep your rescue inhaler on your bedside table so you don't have to search for it.

I just went through a bad seasonal flare-up yesterday. Sitting in a steamy bathroom for ten minutes helped clear up my airways a bit after I took my prescribed inhaler puffs.

Sit upright, use your rescue inhaler, and seek medical help immediately if breathing becomes too difficult.

I used to rush to the hospital every single time I had a mild cough. Over time, I learned that staying calm and using the spacer with my inhaler makes the medicine work much more effectively.

When a mild spasm starts, gently sit up and focus on prolonging your exhalations. However, if it is a severe attack, please rely on your medical inhaler first before any breathing techniques.