Symptoms
Asthma attack signs and symptoms include:
• Severe shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, and coughing or wheezing
• Low peak expiratory flow (PEF) readings, if you use a peak flow meter
• Worsening symptoms despite use of a quick-relief (rescue) inhaler
Signs and symptoms of an asthma attack vary from person to person. Work with your doctor to identify your particular signs and symptoms of worsening asthma — and what to do when they occur.
If your asthma symptoms keep getting worse even after you take medication as your doctor directed, you may need a trip to the emergency room. Your doctor can help you learn to recognize an asthma emergency so that you'll know when to get help.