Asthma: symptoms, self-care and when to get help

Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.

Asthma causes wheezing, breathlessness, coughing, and chest tightness due to narrowed, inflamed airways, and is usually managed well with inhalers and by avoiding known triggers. A severe attack — where a reliever inhaler isn't helping or breathing is very difficult — is a medical emergency.

Overview

Asthma is a long-term condition affecting the airways, which become inflamed and narrow, especially when triggered by things like allergens, cold air, exercise, smoke, or infections. Symptoms can vary from mild and occasional to more frequent and disruptive.

With the right inhaler technique and treatment plan, most people with asthma can lead active, symptom-free lives most of the time.

What may help

Use your preventer inhaler daily as prescribed, even when you feel well
Carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times
Identify and, where possible, avoid your personal triggers
Have a written asthma action plan and know what to do if symptoms worsen

When to see a pharmacist or GP

You're using your reliever inhaler more than a few times a week
Symptoms are waking you at night
You don't have a written asthma action plan
You're not sure your inhaler technique is correct

When it could be an emergency

Reliever inhaler isn't easing symptoms, or you need it again within a few hours
Too breathless to talk, eat, or sleep
Breathing is getting faster, and it feels like a struggle to breathe
Lips or fingertips turning blue, or feeling drowsy or confused

If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.

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Common questions

What's the difference between a preventer and a reliever inhaler?

A preventer (usually taken daily) reduces airway inflammation over time; a reliever is used to quickly ease symptoms during an attack. Both play a different role and neither replaces the other.

Can asthma develop in adulthood?

Yes — while it often starts in childhood, adult-onset asthma is also common and is assessed and managed the same way.

What should I do during a severe asthma attack?

Sit upright, use your reliever inhaler as instructed on your action plan, and call your local emergency number if there's no improvement or symptoms are severe — don't wait to see if it passes.

Can asthma be cured?

There is no cure, but with the right treatment most people can control their symptoms well and live normally.

What triggers asthma?

Common triggers include colds and flu, allergies such as pollen, dust mites and pets, smoke, cold air, exercise, pollution and strong emotions.

Official sources

Hay Fever

Symptoms, self-care, and when to seek help.

Cough

How long a cough lasts and when to get it checked.

Eczema

Triggers, skincare routine, and when to seek help.

Anxiety

Common signs, coping strategies, and getting support.

General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.