Which signs indicate an asthma attack during sport, and what action should be taken first?

• A. Fever, phlegm production; treat with rest.
• B. Headache and dizziness; sit out.
• C. Wheeze, shortness of breath, chest tightness; administer the athlete's prescribed inhaler immediately and seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen.
• D. Sneezing and itchy eyes.

Answer: (C)

Recognizing an asthma attack during sport comes down to real signs of airway constriction: wheeze, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. When these appear, the first action is to give the athlete’s prescribed fast-acting inhaler immediately. These bronchodilators quickly relax airway smooth muscle and usually improve breathing within minutes, allowing the athlete to continue if they can, or rest safely if needed.

If symptoms persist or worsen after using the inhaler, seek medical help promptly. If the person cannot speak in full sentences, is turning blue around the lips, or is fading or confused, call emergency services right away.

The other signs listed—fever with phlegm, headaches or dizziness, or sneezing with itchy eyes—do not indicate an acute asthma attack and don’t guide the immediate management in the same way, as they point to other conditions or non-acute allergic symptoms.