Asthma
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-22. 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 — check Red Flags for your country's emergency number, or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Asthma" in the appCommon 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.
Read more on the NHS website →
General information only, last checked 2026-09-22 — 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. Content is checked against current published guidance from official public health sources — see how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.