Why has my asthma suddenly got worse?
Claire Fisher, Asthma UK Respiratory Nurse, shares some top tips on what to do if your asthma is getting worse.
We’re getting a lot of calls to our Helpline and messages on our WhatsApp service from people who are finding that their asthma is getting worse.
Some reasons that people’s asthma might be getting worse now are:
· picking up colds and flu plus COVID-19, as people are mixing more now
· autumn triggers, including indoor mould and bonfires
· mould spores, when you're out and about
· people not taking their medicines exactly as prescribed
· poor inhaler technique – watch our short videos to find out how to improve yours
What can I do to help my symptoms?
At this time of year, don't forget to ask your GP or asthma nurse about an antihistamine if you have allergies, especially as autumn arrives. Asthma is a long-term condition, but for most people, it shouldn't get in the way of enjoying life. Read more about managing asthma in adults, including how to prevent an asthma attack.
Lots of people at the moment don’t seem to have an up-to-date asthma action plan, which will help to tell you what to do if your asthma is worsening. It’s so important to get one and to measure your peak flow.
Some people find it difficult to communicate how bad their asthma is, or how bad their child’s symptoms have become. You might find it useful to read my colleague Debby’s blog on how to ask for an urgent appointment when your child needs one.
I also direct people to the BLF page on signs of breathing problems in children. This details the signs and symptoms to look out for, what they might mean and when to ask for help.
How can I tell if my asthma is getting worse?
There are some general signs to look out for, which suggest that your asthma is getting worse. These are:
feeling breathless
coughing
tight chest
wheezing
waking at night due to asthma symptoms
using your reliever inhaler (usually blue) three or more times per week
if your asthma is stopping you from doing your daily activities.
See your GP or asthma nurse if you're using your reliever inhaler three or more times a week. This is a sign your asthma is not well controlled and you need a review of your preventer inhaler/medication as soon as possible.
Read more on what to do if your asthma symptoms are getting worse.
Could my symptoms lead to an asthma attack?
If your asthma symptoms are getting worse, you need to take action as soon as possible. If you don’t, this could increase your risk of having an asthma attack.
When I get calls on the Helpline from people who are worried about their worsening symptoms, I advise them to call their doctor and get a same-day urgent appointment, as it is unlikely to get better by itself. Tell them that your symptoms are worse and that you’re worried that if you’re not seen urgently you are at risk of an asthma attack.
If your GP surgery is closed or they can’t offer you an appointment, call 111. They can advise on what to do next, which could include arranging for you to be seen by an out of hours doctor or at a walk-in centre.
Read more about when to call 111.
If you’re having an asthma attack, make sure you follow our emergency advice on what to do. An asthma attack is a medical emergency, which is why it’s important that it’s treated as soon as possible. You may be sent a rapid response paramedic ahead of the ambulance, which means your treatment can be started sooner.
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