Emergency Planning – What to Do If Breathing Worsens | Respiratory Health Blog

Emergency Planning – What to Do If Breathing Worsens

Respiratory Health Blog Series | Blog 8 of 10

Breathlessness can feel frightening – especially if it worsens suddenly. But with a clear plan and the right tools, you or your loved ones can stay calm and act quickly. This guide is for older adults living with COPD, asthma, or other lung conditions, and for the carers supporting them.

Recognising a Breathing Emergency

Call 999 immediately if you or someone you care for experiences:

Severe breathlessness at rest
Chest pain or tightness with breathing
Lips or fingers turning blue
Confusion, drowsiness, or collapse

Don’t wait. Early action saves lives.

When to Use a Rescue Inhaler

Use your reliever inhaler (usually blue) if:

You feel your chest tightening or wheezing increases
You’re struggling to speak in full sentences
Cold air or exertion triggers sudden breathlessness

If there’s no improvement after 10 minutes and 2–10 puffs, call 999.

What Is a Lung “Rescue Pack”?

Some people with COPD are given a standby pack with:

Antibiotics (for infections)
Steroid tablets (for inflammation)
Instructions on when and how to use them

Ask your GP or respiratory nurse if you’re eligible for one.

Create Your Emergency Contact Plan

Save 999 and 111 into your phone
Print a copy of your condition and medications list
Keep an ICE contact card (In Case of Emergency) in your wallet
Tell neighbours or carers where your rescue inhaler and emergency pack are stored

Make a Lung Action Plan With Your GP

This is a written step-by-step guide personalised for your condition. It includes:

Your usual symptoms
Early warning signs of flare-ups
What to do and when to escalate

You can also use our Cognitive Resilience Hub to create a digital version using AI tools.

🧠 Surprise AI Prompt:
“Create a digital ‘Lung Emergency Plan’. Include: symptoms to watch, rescue steps, ICE contacts, and a personal calm-down phrase. Save and share it with someone you trust.”

Emergency Support for Carers

If you’re a carer, you should:

Know where medications and rescue items are kept
Understand inhaler technique (ask the pharmacist if unsure)
Have a backup oxygen plan if prescribed
Join our Zoom support group to practise emergency conversations and emotional care

Stay Prepared, Not Afraid

Having an action plan doesn’t mean expecting the worst – it means being ready for the unexpected. With every step you prepare, you strengthen your confidence and reduce anxiety.