Asthma remedies without an inhaler: what to do

During an asthma flare, muscles around the airways tighten and inflammation can further restrict airflow. Prescribed reliever medicine is designed to address airway narrowing. Water, coffee, steam, breathing exercises and herbal mixtures do not provide an equivalent or dependable effect.

Strong vapours, incense, essential oils and very hot steam may irritate the airways or create additional risk. Never borrow medicine prescribed for somebody else or improvise a dose from an unfamiliar device.

Stop exertion and sit upright rather than lying flat. Leave an area containing smoke, dust or chemical fumes if this can be done safely. Loosen tight clothing, use slow controlled breaths and ask someone to stay nearby. Contact a medical service promptly for access to appropriate treatment and assessment.

If a prescribed inhaler is found, follow the person's written asthma action plan and use the correct device technique. After the episode, arrange replacements for empty, expired or lost devices and keep them in agreed, accessible locations without exposing them to excessive heat.

Emergency help is needed if breathlessness is severe or rapidly worsening, speech becomes difficult, the chest pulls in with breathing, lips appear blue or grey, or the person becomes faint, confused or drowsy. Call sooner when no reliever is available; do not wait to see whether a drink or breathing exercise works.

Discuss where spare prescribed devices may be kept, how to check remaining doses, what storage conditions apply, who can administer medicine to a child, and which action-plan instruction covers a lost or empty inhaler.