Breathing Emergency – Step-by-Step Guides

Types of Breathing Emergencies

• Asthma attack - wheezing, coughing, chest tightness
• Choking - unable to speak, cough, or breathe
• Allergic reaction - swelling of throat/airway
• COPD exacerbation - severe shortness of breath
• Pneumonia - difficulty breathing with fever
• COVID-19 respiratory distress

Signs of Breathing Difficulty

• Shortness of breath or gasping for air
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing
• Blue or gray color around lips/fingertips
• Flaring nostrils or chest pulling in
• Inability to speak full sentences

Immediate Steps

1. 1Call emergency services (AIVA) immediately
2. 2Help the person sit upright in a comfortable position
3. 3Loosen tight clothing around neck and chest
4. 4Ask if they have rescue inhaler (asthma) or medication
5. 5Help them take prescribed medication if available
6. 6Encourage slow, deep breaths
7. 7Stay calm and reassure the person

For Choking – Heimlich Maneuver

1. 1Ask 'Are you choking?' If they nod, act quickly
2. 2Stand behind the person and wrap arms around waist
3. 3Make a fist with one hand, place above navel
4. 4Grasp fist with other hand and give quick upward thrusts
5. 5Repeat until object is expelled or help arrives

What NOT to Do

• Don't lay the person flat on their back
• Don't give food or water
• Don't leave them alone
• Don't ignore wheezing or breathing difficulty
• Don't delay calling for emergency help