This could be due to disrupted night-time sleep from asthma symptoms. Or as a result from a late-night visit to a hospital or emergency department. Rest as much as possible.
Using a lot of different muscles to help you breathe may result in aches and pains. If you need to, don’t be afraid to ask friends or family for help at home.
You may have felt quite scared or frightened by the feelings you experienced. Having these responses is normal but could make you feel a bit worn out or exhausted. If you need to talk to someone about your feelings, reach out to a close family member or friend for support. You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for immediate support from a trained counsellor, or text them on 0477131114.
Steroid tablets can sometimes affect your appetite. Fuel your body with healthy food options, like eating plenty of fruit and vegetables every day. Drink plenty of water. Try not to rely on processed or take-away foods that are high in saturated fats.
Symptoms with exercise are often the last to go away after an asthma attack or flare-up. Build up your activity level slowly. Always keep your reliever puffer with you in case you need it. You can also talk to your doctor about using a reliever before activities to prevent asthma symptoms.
Have you arranged your next doctor’s appointment for an asthma review? Asthma flare-ups can be a sign that your asthma treatment is not working for you and needs adjusting by your doctor. Make sure you have your review appointment 2 weeks after an asthma flare-up to follow up on your recovery and help prevent future flare ups.
Once you have recovered ask your doctor about having a lung function test (spirometry) to check your lung health.
Try practicing some breathing exercises while you recover. These simple exercises may help you improve your breathing pattern and feel less breathless. See exercises here: Would you like to Breathe Better?
Contact Asthma Australia to discuss your recent asthma attack with one of our Asthma Educators. It’s a free service that can help get you back on track to managing your asthma.
Call now: 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) Email us: asthmasupport@asthma.org.au