During an asthma attack, the muscles around the airways tighten up, the airways become irritated and swollen, and the lining of the airways produces a fluid called mucus, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms of an asthma attack include coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and difficulty getting enough air. Other common symptoms are wheezing and a rattling sound in the chest. The sides of the airways in the lungs swell, and the airways shrink, making it harder to breathe. Asthma attacks can be triggered by exposure to allergens, irritants in the air, certain illnesses, strenuous exercise, extreme weather conditions, and strong emotions that change normal breathing patterns. Warning signs of a potential asthma attack can include an increase in the need for rescue medication, a worsening cough, shortness of breath, and diminished tolerance for exercise. Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening. It is important to recognize and treat even mild symptoms of an asthma attack to help prevent severe episodes and keep asthma under control. If you think youre having an asthma attack, you should sit up straight, try to keep calm, use your inhaler as prescribed, and seek medical help if your symptoms do not improve.