What is the correct first aid response when someone is having an asthma attack?

When someone is having an asthma attack, the correct first aid response involves assisting the victim in using their inhaler. Inhalers contain medication specifically designed to quickly relieve asthma symptoms by relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing the person to breathe more easily. Providing this assistance can significantly help to alleviate the immediate distress and improve the individual’s breathing.

Other methods, such as having the victim breathe into a paper bag or lying them back with their feet elevated, can worsen the situation. These approaches do not address the underlying issue of airway constriction, and can lead to a dangerous lack of oxygen. Additionally, aspirin is not an appropriate treatment for asthma attacks, as it does not provide any relief from asthma symptoms and may even complicate the patient's condition if they are allergic to the medication or if it interferes with other medications they may be taking. Therefore, assisting with the inhaler is the most effective and appropriate response in this scenario.