An asthmatic episode is another name for an asthma attack: a flare-up where the airways narrow and it becomes harder to breathe. Families and bystanders may use either phrase; in Australian first-aid guidance, “asthma-attack/" class="fag-auto-link">asthma attack” is the more common term.
What you may notice
Symptoms can vary, but may include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, difficulty speaking in full sentences, or increasing distress. A person can become very tired or frightened when they are working hard to breathe.
What to do first
Help the person sit upright, stay calm and use their written Asthma Action Plan if they have one. Encourage them to use their prescribed reliever as directed by that plan. Do not leave a person whose breathing is getting worse alone.
When to call Triple Zero (000)
Call 000 immediately if breathing is severely difficult, the person is getting worse quickly, looks exhausted, becomes confused, or gets little or no relief from their reliever. Keep following their action plan or the instructions from the emergency call-taker while help is on the way.
How this term fits into the glossary
An asthmatic episode and an asthma attack describe the same kind of flare-up. This page explains the term; see Asthma Attack for the site’s detailed first-aid guidance. If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED if one is available.
Quick answer
An asthmatic episode is an asthma flare-up that can make breathing hard. Help the person sit upright, follow their written asthma plan, and call 000 if symptoms are severe, worsening or not improving.
For independent Australian health information, see healthdirect’s asthma attack management guide.
Sources reviewed
- National Asthma Council Australia: first aid for asthma
- Triple Zero: official emergency calling guidance
Reviewed against current Australian asthma, first aid and emergency guidance by the First Aid Glossary Editorial Team. This article is general information and does not replace a person’s written asthma action plan, emergency-operator directions, professional medical advice or hands-on first aid training.
