2/4/23, 1:10 PM Bronchospasm (Adult)

Patient Education

Bronchospasm (Adult)

Bronchospasm occurs when the airways (bronchial tubes) start to spasm and contract. This
makes it hard to breathe and causes wheezing (a high-pitched whistling sound).
Bronchospasm can also cause frequent coughing without wheezing and feeling short of
breath.

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2/4/23, 1:10 PM Bronchospasm (Adult)

Bronchospasm is due to irritation, inflammation, or allergic reaction of the airways. People

with asthma get bronchospasm. However, not everyone with bronchospasm has asthma.

Being exposed to harmful fumes, a recent case of bronchitis, exercise, or a flare-up of

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may cause the airways to spasm. An
episode of bronchospasm may last 7 to 14 days. Medicine may be prescribed to relax the
airways and prevent wheezing. Antibiotics will be prescribed only if your healthcare
provider thinks there is a bacterial infection. Antibiotics don't help a viral infection.

Home care
Drink lots of water or other fluids (at least 10 glasses a day) during an attack. This will
loosen lung secretions and make it easier to breathe. If you have heart or kidney
disease, check with your doctor before you drink extra fluids.

Take prescribed medicine exactly at the times advised. If you take an inhaled
medicine to help with breathing, don't use it more than once every 4 hours, unless
told to do so. If prescribed an antibiotic or prednisone, take all of the medicine as
directed, even if you are feeling better after a few days.

Don't smoke. Also avoid being exposed to secondhand smoke.

If you were given a bronchodilator inhaler, use it exactly as directed. It's' important to
always use the correct techniques when using bronchodilator inhalers. If you need to
use it more often than prescribed, your condition may be getting worse. Contact your
healthcare provider.

Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.

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2/4/23, 1:10 PM Bronchospasm (Adult)

If you're age 65 or older, have a chronic lung disease or condition that affects your immune
system, or you smoke, ask your provider about the 2 available pneumococcal vaccines. Ask
if 1 or both of the vaccines are best for you based on your health condition. Also talk with
your provider about the importance of getting a yearly flu shot (influenza vaccine).

When to get medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

You need to use your inhalers more often than normal

Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider

Cough that brings up lots of dark-colored sputum (mucus)

Feeling of doom

Feeling dizzy or confused

Lips or skin looking blue, purple, or gray

Unable to talk

You don't get better in 24 hours

Call 911
Call 911 if any of these occur:

Coughing up bloody sputum (mucus)

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Chest pain with each breath, or abnormal chest pain

Increased wheezing or shortness of breath

© 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for
professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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