Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease affecting more than 25 million Americans. If you have asthma, your airways can become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult to breathe — an asthma attack is a sudden worsening of these symptoms.

An asthma attack can be serious, so we spoke with Sameh Hanna, MD, Lung and Respiratory Care doctor with Dignity Health Medical Group – Inland Empire, to learn how to prevent asthma attacks and manage them effectively if they occur.

Why do people get asthma attacks?
“Asthmatic people get asthma attacks when their airways become inflamed, narrowed, and produce excess mucus in response to certain triggers, which vary from person to person. Triggers can include a variety of factors, such as allergens, irritants, infection, exercise — or even just a change in weather!” says Dr. Hanna. 

Do asthma attacks always happen suddenly?
“Symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe. Attacks can be brief (about an hour) or can last for several days,” Dr. Hanna explains. “While asthma attacks may seem sudden, they can develop over several days as symptoms worsen, so it’s important to keep them under control and treat symptoms as they arise. This could help you avoid a trip to the emergency room.”

Can you prevent asthma attacks?
“There's no certain way to prevent asthma. But you can reduce your risk of asthma attacks by knowing your triggers and avoiding things that cause them. If you notice symptoms developing, they can often be managed at home with quick-relief medication (like a rescue inhaler, such as albuterol) and a possible increase in your controller medication (the daily medication you use to prevent asthma symptoms, which includes inhaled corticosteroids). However, in severe cases, it's crucial to contact your doctor or seek emergency care immediately.”

What should I do during an asthma attack?
“If you have asthma, I recommend you work with your doctor to create a plan to prevent and treat asthma attacks, so you’re ready to handle your condition in an emergency. Your asthma action plan is a personalized guide that outlines steps to take based on your symptoms and medication needs. Following this plan is crucial for managing your asthma effectively," explains Dr. Hanna. “It’s also important you take your medicine exactly as prescribed, and that you keep your medicine with you at all times. Seek emergency medical care if you are having severe breathing difficulty — trust your instincts and don’t delay getting prompt treatment if you need it.”

While asthma attacks are often preventable with proper management, it's crucial to be prepared in case one occurs. If you have questions about asthma or need help creating or updating your asthma action plan, visit our Find a Doc page to be connected with a local Dignity Health clinician. 

In addition to asthma, Dr. Hanna treats chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, lung infections (bacterial and fungal), pleural diseases, pulmonary embolism and more.