Asthma
What it is
Asthma is a long-term lung disease that causes the small tubes that carry air to the lungs (the bronchi) to swell. The tubes become narrower, making it harder for air to enter the lungs. Symptoms may go away on their own or with medication.
Related sheet available: Difficulty Breathing
What you can do at home
What to do
- Keep the air in the home clean.
- Stay away from people who are sick (e.g., with a cold or the flu).
- Breathe through the nose or cover your mouth with a scarf when it is cold and windy.
- Exercise regularly.
To control asthma symptoms
- Take medications as directed by the pharmacist or doctor.
- Follow your asthma action plan, if you have one.
- Ask a pharmacist for advice before taking a new medication yourself or giving one to another person in your care.
What to avoid
- Avoid anything that triggers asthma symptoms (e.g., dust, smoke, pollen or carpeting).
- Do not smoke or vape.
- Avoid places where there is smoke or dust in the air.
When to seek medical attention
Thick or yellowish-green mucus (phlegm)
Asthma symptoms that do not go away after using a quick-relief inhaler (fast-acting bronchodilator, e.g., Ventolin):
- cough
- a high-pitched or whistling sound when breathing (stridor)
- shortness of breath
- symptoms that occur more often or are more severe at night
The condition does not improve after 24 to 48 hours, even after following the advice provided.
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Rapid changes in overall condition :
- unusual tiredness (drowsiness) or difficulty staying awake
- reduced responsiveness to what is happening around them
- confusion, agitation or unusual behaviour
- severe weakness
In children :
- difficulty waking up
- being limp or having difficulty holding up the head
Severe asthma attack :
- difficulty breathing, even at rest
- a cough or wheezing that does not go away
- difficulty sleeping because of symptoms, or symptoms that occur during sleep
Symptoms that continue for 10 to 20 minutes after using a quick-relief inhaler (short-acting bronchodilator, e.g., Ventolin)
Symptoms that return a few hours after a severe asthma attack