Managing acute asthma in primary care

Asthma is a common inflammatory condition affecting the airways. Many people with it fail to achieve a satisfactory level of control and, consequently, have recurrent acute exacerbations. These can occur due to allergen exposure, viral infections or for no identifiable reason. Guidelines categorise exacerbations into three categories, from moderate to life threatening. Prompt assessment and treatment using bronchodilators and corticosteroids are essential, as is follow up to identify and manage factors that may have contributed to the exacerbation. This article discusses guidelines on the management and causes of acute exacerbations, and follow-up care that should be provided.