Crystal blue,
I don't know if your still looking for answers but...
Hot liquids tea, soup, etc help calm the breathing tubes so it is easier to breathe.
Also take a moment to sit down and bput your feet up..it really helps because you need less oxygen when in this position than when running around.
Also I was told that in developing countries the way to stop an attack without medicine is to have the patient drink a hot coffee. I'm not a coffee drinker so I don't do that but I have a young friend who has used coffee (he's only 15 now).
Also when my asthma is really bad, extra magnesium helps. I take oral tablets and also my alternative doc has given me IV's of magnesium and other nutrients (a Meyer's Push).
B.