Asthma
Emergency Treatment | Implications for Sailing
Asthma means "difficulty in breathing". It is caused by the narrowing of the small breathing tubes in the lungs. This narrowing is due to the tightening of the muscle in the walls of the tubes, the swelling of their lining and the increased production of mucus.
CAUSE
The actual cause of asthma is unknown however a great deal is known about things that can trigger an attack. Attacks may be brought on by many factors. No two people are alike and it can be very difficult to identify the actual cause of a particular attack. Below is a list of possible triggers for asthma attacks:
- Allergens eg. grass, pollens, house dust mite, pet fur etc.
- Sudden changes in temperature
- Dry hot winds
- Some people may be sensitive to certain types of food eg. preservatives.
Recognising an Asthma Attack
Early signs of an attack
- Breathing becomes more difficult and a wheezing sound develops
- Breathing is rapid, sometimes with a gasp
- Person becomes distressed, pale and sweaty with a rapid pulse.
What to do during an Acute Asthma Attack
- During an attack the person needs quiet surroundings, clean air and treatment.
- Acute attacks need early treatment, the longer you wait the more difficult it is for medication to work.
- The person's medications should be readily available with instructions as to the dose and the order they must be taken in. Generally inhaled beta-agonists are the fastest working.
- If no medication is available seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, pharmacists can supply medication.
- During the attack, if the initial booster dose of medication is helping to control symptoms, continue medication every 4-6 hours.
- There is no reason why a person with asthma should not be fully involved in sailing as long as they have their condition under control.
- If stimuli for attack are known to be climatic and the sailor and organisers are aware of the possibility of an attack in certain weather conditions then medication can be taken sensibly, participation can be complete.
- Organisers should be aware of medication and correct procedure during an attack and ensure the person has filled out an information sheet about their medications.
- Sailors, organisers & rescue boat assistants should be aware of a common signal given for "immediate assistance required".
