# Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing them to swell and narrow, and produce extra mucus. This leads to difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air, or stress.

**What is Asthma?**

## First Aid for Asthma

1. Help the casualty to sit upright and stay calm
2. Use their prescribed asthma inhaler and follow their Asthma Action Plan (if available) 
3. Give four puffs of the inhaler, wait four minutes, and repeat if necessary
4. Call emergency services if the casualty does not improve

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First Aid Glossary · https://firstaidcoursebrisbanecbd.au/glossary/asthma · Australia Wide First Aid (RTO 31961).