What to do when asthma symptoms start and you have no inhaler

Try to remain calm and take steady, comfortable breaths. Do not lie flat, exercise through the symptoms or borrow another person's prescription inhaler. If breathing is severely difficult or worsening quickly, contact emergency services now.

Asthma narrows the airways through muscle tightening and inflammation. A reliever inhaler is prescribed to open the airways during symptoms, so breathing techniques alone do not replace it. Cough, wheeze, chest tightness and breathlessness can signal an asthma flare, but other conditions can cause similar symptoms.

Smoke, dust, perfume, cold air and allergens may worsen symptoms. Leaving the exposure can reduce further irritation, although it does not treat airway narrowing that is already present.

Sit upright with your shoulders relaxed and loosen tight clothing. Move to cleaner air if this can be done without exertion. Tell someone nearby what is happening, and arrange prompt assessment at a clinic or urgent care service if symptoms do not settle.

If you have a written asthma action plan, follow its instructions. Ask a family member to bring your own prescribed inhaler if it is close by, but do not delay emergency help while waiting. After the episode, replace expired or empty devices and keep the inhaler where it is quickly accessible.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness, difficulty speaking in full sentences, blue or grey lips, confusion, faintness, marked exhaustion, chest pulling in with each breath, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening. These signs can indicate dangerously restricted airflow.

Prompt same-day assessment is also appropriate when wheezing or chest tightness persists, symptoms return soon after settling, sleep is disrupted, or usual activities become difficult. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or cannot breathe comfortably.

Ask which reliever you should carry, how to check the dose counter and expiry date, and whether your inhaler technique is effective. Discuss where to keep spare prescribed medication, which triggers matter for you, and what your written action plan should say for worsening symptoms.