Yes, people can die from an asthma attack. It is always important to get treatment as early as possible, because an asthma attack can reach a point where it is impossible to treat. If you are with someone during an asthma attack, help them to take their asthma inhaler. If they have more than one inhaler, you should use the blue Reliever inhaler (Ventolin or Salamol). If their symptoms do not resolve, you should seek emergency medical attention.