First, sit upright and try to remain calm since stress and panic make symptoms worse. Move away from possible triggers such as smoke or allergens. Stop exercise, and, if the attack was induced by cold, find a warm location. Some people have found that calming their breathing and steam inhalation can ease asthma attacks, but there isn’t research to support these methods. Some preliminary animal studies do show that inhaling lavender essential oils may help, but more research is needed.