Sudden or severe onset, blue lips, chest pain and inability to speak are warning signs.
If someone cannot speak a full sentence, has blue lips, reduced awareness, or breathlessness with chest pain, fainting or an allergic reaction, call local emergency services immediately. Do not leave them alone or give medicine outside their treatment plan.
Medical principle
Breathing symptoms can result from infection, allergy, asthma, heart problems or environmental factors. Onset, triggers, fever, wheezing and limits on activity are important to assessment.
Practical steps that may help
- Avoid smoke and known triggers and maintain adequate ventilation.
- Practise correct inhaler technique with a doctor or pharmacist; incorrect technique reduces treatment benefit.
- Record cough duration, fever, sputum, wheezing and links with seasons or surroundings.
When should you seek medical care?
Severe or sudden breathlessness, blue colouring, inability to speak a full sentence, chest pain, coughing blood or reduced awareness require an immediate call to local emergency services.
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