Triggers

• An asthma attack is caused by a type of trigger. There are allergic and non-allergic types of triggers. Allergic triggers include pollens, molds, dust mites and pet dander. Non-allergic triggers can be environmental irritants like pollutants, smog, harsh odors, smoke or even certain weather conditions. Exercise and respiratory infection can also lead to an asthma attack.
  
  

Mild Symptoms

• In the early stages of an asthma reaction, there are signals that an attack can be looming. Mild symptoms such as excessive coughing and wheezing, which is a whistle-like sound that can be heard during regular breathing, will be present. These signs are an indication that inflammation has increased and that a full-blown attack may be near, according to the Mayo Clinic.
  
  

Severe Symptoms

• As an asthma attack progresses, your chest will begin to tighten and feel heavy. This symptom is coupled with shortness of breath. During this time, breathing and even speaking becomes very laborious. When these symptoms occur, it is likely that you will require immediate treatment.
  
  

Preventative Measures

• If you suffer from chronic asthma, monitoring your airflow capacity can help you be aware of the possibility of an attack. This can be achieved with a peak-flow meter. A quick breath into this handy device can immediately indicate how open or blocked your airways are and allow you to take the appropriate precautionary measures.
  
  

Treatment

• If you suffer from asthma attacks, your doctor will prescribe a fast-acting inhaler to help relax the airways during an attack. If you are using your inhaler more than twice per week, speak with him about getting your asthma under control with some preventative medications, according to Canada's Lung Association. Corticosteroid inhalers and/or leukotriene blockers may be prescribed to help decrease inflammation and reduce the frequency of attacks.