Does tightness in chest and shortness of breath indicate an asthma attack?
Patient: OK this question is about asthma.  I had an asthma attack last night continuing on to this morning with chest tightening, wheezing and shortness of breath.  I went to my local doctor today and was nebulised. However this evening I am again having slight shortness of breath with chest tightness/pain and a faint feeling. My hands are also shaking however I'm not wheezing at all. Am I having another asthma attack or about to have one? Is there anything I should look out for as I'm home alone and don't really think I should go to sleep in case I AM having one. I've never experienced an asthma attack without wheezing before so I don't know if it's even possible. What should I do? Doctor: Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.I can understand your concern. Yes, you are having asthma attack most probably. Wheezing can be absent in early part of attack. To prevent such asthma attacks, you should consult pulmonologist and start controller medications Iike long acting inhaled bronchodilators (formoterol or salmeterol), inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) (budesonide or fluticasone) and oral combination of montelukast and fexofenadine.If you take these drugs, you won't get asthma attacks. At present, you need short acting beta 2 agonist (SABA) (Salbutamol or albuterol).Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.