If a person with asthma is having difficulty breathing, what should you prepare for?

When a person with asthma is experiencing difficulty breathing, it is crucial to be prepared for breathing failure, as this represents a serious progression of an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, the airways can become significantly constricted and inflamed, which can lead to the inability to get enough air into the lungs. If the situation worsens, it can result in breathing failure, where the person cannot breathe adequately and may not get enough oxygen, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences.

Recognizing the signs of breathing failure, such as extreme shortness of breath, inability to speak, confusion, weakness, or bluish skin color, is vital for timely intervention. Proper action may include using a rescue inhaler if available, calling for emergency assistance, and being prepared to administer CPR if the person loses consciousness and fails to breathe. This approach emphasizes the need for vigilance and proper response in a scenario involving a person with asthma in distress.