I have asthma that is only brought on by the cold virus. I currently have a chest cold and I am taking ventolin and flowvent. I have sporadic, uncontrollable coughing fits where I often gag due to increased mucus and I get an electric shock sensation in my chest and back which subsides quickly but is very uncomfortable. Am I experiencing an asthma attack or is this just the way my body reacts to a chest infection. What else can I do to prevent these attacks happening. They are embarrassing and often occur with little warning.