The first-aid treatment for someone who is having an asthma attack starts with having them sit upright first. This lets them breathe better and more comfortably. Once they are sitting upright, have them take 2 to 6 puffs of their rescue inhaler or nebuliser. If the person is still having difficulty breathing after 20 minutes and a second round of the prescribed number of puffs, you may need to call the emergency services or bring the person to the nearest hospital.