Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it harder to breathe. During a flare-up this typically shows up as a tight chest, wheezing, breathlessness and a persistent cough, often set off by cold air, exercise, allergens, smoke, or a cold or chest infection.
Most people keep it well controlled with a reliever inhaler for immediate symptoms, alongside a daily preventer inhaler if one's been prescribed. It helps to know your own personal triggers and to keep an asthma action plan up to date with your GP or asthma nurse. If an attack doesn't settle after using the reliever inhaler as normal, that's a sign to get urgent medical help rather than wait it out.
Two common triggers are covered on our hay fever and allergies pages.
Common questions
What does an asthma flare-up typically feel like?
A tight chest, wheezing, breathlessness and coughing are typical, often brought on by cold air, exercise, allergens, smoke or a chest infection.
What should happen if a reliever inhaler does not help during an attack?
Treat it as urgent and seek emergency medical help if symptoms do not ease after using a reliever inhaler as usual.