Asthma attacks rarely occur without warning. Warning signs are not the same for everyone. Know your warning signs and how to react to them. This may help you avoid an asthma attack.

• A drop in your peak flow reading
• Chronic cough, especially at night
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest feels tight or hurts
• Breathing faster than normal
• Feeling short of breath more easily than usual
• Feeling tired or weak
• Itchy, scratchy, or sore throat
• Feeling restless

Follow the asthma action plan provided by your provider as soon as you experience any of these signs. If you do not have an asthma action plan, call your provider's office.

• Wash your hands. This is especially important if someone in your home is ill.
• Ask your provider if you should receive a flu or pneumonia vaccine.
• Stay away from people who have a cold, the flu or pneumonia. Avoid crowds whenever possible during cold and flu season.
• Clean all faucets, countertops, toilets, light switches, doorknobs, and telephone receivers regularly. Use a solution of 1 tablespoon chlorine bleach in 1 gallon of water.
• Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Don’t smoke or allow smoking in your home or car.
• Avoid dust as much as possible.

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