You can benefit from knowing signs of an asthma attack

Here are some things to look for: Coughing caused by asthma is often worse at night or early in the morning and creates problems for people trying to sleep. Wheezing is a whistling or squeaky sound made while breathing. Shortness of breath makes you feel like you cannot catch your breath. Bluish color to the lips and face is considered a danger sign, and you should get emergency help immediately. Sweating and severe anxiety can occur during an asthma attack. Breathing that requires a drawing in of the muscles between the ribs also may accompany an asthma attack.

An asthma attack can be a frightening event. When an attack occurs, the muscles surrounding the airways tighten and the lining of the air passages swell.

Asthma attacks become dangerous if the airflow becomes severely restricted.

You need to be able to recognize the warning signs of an asthma attack so that you can act effectively should one occur. You need to be able to determine if medical help is necessary.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute reports that symptoms may vary from one asthma attack to another and they can also differ in terms of severity and in how often they occur. Some can last for a brief time, and some can last for days.

Because most asthma attacks begin slowly, early warning signs can usually be detected. Attacks can be prevented or be less severe, if treatment is started when early warning signs are observed.