What are asthma attacks like?

Asthma attacks can range from mild to severe, although the majority of attacks are generally moderate in severity. During an attack, a person may experience shortness of breath due to constriction of the airways and reduced airflow into the lungs. Common symptoms include wheezing or a whistling sound when exhaling, chest tightness or pain, coughing, difficulty breathing or fatigue after physical activity or exercise. Depending on the severity of the attack, they may require medical attention and be treated with an inhaler and/or nebulizer therapy - which helps open up narrowed airways by delivering medication directly to your lungs. Some individuals who struggle with asthma also report feelings such as fear during an attack due to struggling for breath at times where few remedies are available such as being away from home without emergency access to medications like their inhalers.