How to spot an asthma attack, respond before it's too late

A child struggling to breathe is every parent's worst nightmare.

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With South Africa facing one of the highest asthma rates in the world, this fear is a daily reality for most families.

Anyone caring for an asthmatic child must know the signs of an asthma attack as a medical emergency and clearly understand how to respond appropriately when every second counts.

"All caregivers of children with asthma must be provided with clear, written instructions by their treating doctor outlining exactly what to do during an acute exacerbation," says Dr Refiloe Moreke, a paediatrician practising at Netcare Garden City Hospital.

According to the Global Asthma Report, asthma is the most common non-communicable disease among children and adolescents in Africa, yet it remains largely under-diagnosed.

"Acute asthma attacks in children typically present with an expiratory wheeze and varying degrees of respiratory distress," she says.

Symptoms of respiratory distress:

> Fast breathing;

> Shortness of breath;

> Worsening cough;

> Chest tightness;