Asthma exacerbation - how important is it and how to treat it?

Abstract

The term “Asthma exacerbation” refers to an acute deterioration of asthma symptoms from baseline symptoms with associated reduction in lung function, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. It can occur in patients with a prior diagnosis of asthma or, occasionally, as the first manifestation of the disease. The definition of exacerbation is the need for corticosteroids for at least three days, hospitalization, or an emergency room visit due to asthma. A rapid and objective assessment is crucial to determine the severity of the exacerbation and guide treatment. Treatments should be administered quickly and, often, simultaneously to achieve better outcomes. Supplemental oxygen , inhaled medications are crucial in many patients with asthma exacerbations. Systemic corticosteroid , intravenous magnesium sulfate and others additional therapies should be used in refractory patients. Discharge is a very important moment to organize and advise about importance of the outpatient follow-up.