You've probably heard that people with asthma are more at risk for complications from H1N1 flu (also known as "swine flu"). That may have you feeling scared, but try not to panic. At the moment, H1N1 flu is no more serious than regular seasonal flu — and any kind of flu can trigger asthma flare-ups.

The key to managing flare-ups is to be prepared and know what to look out for. That means following the asthma action plan that your doctor gave you. But even if you do your best, some triggers — like the flu — just can't be avoided, and you might still have a flare-up.

Warning Signs

People who are used to managing their asthma are often good at noticing the early warning signs of a flare-up so they can take action before things get serious.

If you have the flu and notice any of the early warning signs below, check your asthma action plan for advice:

• tightness in your chest
• peak flow meter readings in the yellow zone
• rapid or irregular breathing
• inability to stand or sit still
• unusual fatigue
• restless sleep

Your asthma action plan should tell you how to handle any early signs of a flare-up. This may mean using your rescue medicine or adjusting your controller meds slightly. But if things don't get better after you follow the instructions on your action plan, you'll need to get further help.

When to Go to the ER

What are some signs that a flare-up has turned serious? If you have the flu, get emergency care if you find yourself in any of these situations:

• You take your asthma medicine and your flare-up doesn't get any better.
• You feel a little better after taking your medicine, but your symptoms come back quickly.
• You have trouble talking.

Be Prepared

Be ready for flu season. First, follow your asthma action plan, even when you're feeling OK. If you notice your asthma doesn't seem as well controlled as it used to be, now is a good time to talk to your doctor and go over your plan.

Tell your school nurse that you have asthma. It's also a good idea to let friends, teachers, coaches, and others know too. If they know where to find your asthma action plan and how to respond if you have a severe flare-up, they'll be able to help you if you ever need it.

Although asthma can be dangerous, when it's well managed it's rarely life threatening. So try not to panic too much about flu and asthma — after all, stress can contribute to asthma flare-ups!

Reviewed by: Kate M. Cronan, MD
Date reviewed: September 2009

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