Symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, dyspnea, chest tightness, cyanosis and even respiratory arrest may occur during an acute attack of severe asthma.
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory response in the airways due to irritation from allergens or other factors, which in turn causes bronchial obstruction and airway narrowing. It can lead to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion and difficulty in breathing.
Acute attacks of severe asthma are usually more severe and may result in severe respiratory symptoms. The patient may exhibit a lack of air supply and may need to open their mouth and lift their shoulders when breathing or may need to sit up to ensure slightly smooth breathing. Severe symptoms may even include cyanosis and respiratory arrest.
During an acute attack of severe asthma, the patient needs to be calmed, given oxygen to maintain the body’s oxygen supply, and given aggressive treatment under the direction of a physician.