According to The MERCK Manual Home Edition, status asthmaticus is the most severe asthma attack you can have. Your lungs are no longer able to provide your body with enough oxygen or remove carbon dioxide. You are barely able to breathe or speak.

What Happens During A Severe Attack

The following process is described in the MERCK Manual. The muscles in your air passage react to allergens in the environment and they begin to spasm. Your airway starts to narrow and the air flow to your lungs becomes restricted. This results in inflammation, swelling and increased mucus that restricts air flow and plugs or blocks the airway.

Symptoms

MERCK and The Cleveland Clinic Foundation indicate the following symptoms for severe asthma: confusion, lethargy, non-stoppable coughing, rapid breathing, inability to catch your breath, chest pain or pressure, retractions in neck and chest muscles, feelings of anxiety and pain, a pale sweaty face and blue lips or fingernails, referred to as cyanosis. These symptoms are a sign that immediate medical attention is required.

Asthma Action Plan

The Cleveland Clinic Foundation suggest you create an Asthma Action Plan. Document the step by step actions you need to take if an attack occurs. Develop your own plan under the direction of your medical adviser.

Allergens

MERCK suggest allergens such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, cigarette smoke, cold air and viral infections may contribute to severe asthma attacks.

Warning

According to The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, a severe asthma attack may be life threatening. Seeking immediate medical attention increases the chances that you can reverse a severe attack.

Source:

The MERCK Manual Home Edition: Asthma.

Cleveland Clinic: Asthma An Overview.

Cleveland Clinic: Symptoms of Asthma.