Acute severe asthma: management and treatment

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Emergency Medicine
• Clinical Therapeutics

Background:

• Acute asthma attacks present with severe functional impairment, often with low symptom perception.
• Early assessment of vital signs and respiratory function, including dyspnea, is critical in emergency settings.
• Dynamic pulmonary hyperinflation can impair ventilatory mechanics during acute exacerbations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on managing acute asthma attacks.
• To focus on pharmacological and ventilatory care strategies.
• To highlight the importance of patient education for long-term asthma management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current evidence on acute asthma management.
• Analysis of pharmacological treatment strategies.
• Evaluation of ventilatory support and patient education approaches.

Main Results:

• Prompt medical inhalation and/or intravenous therapy are recommended for impaired ventilatory mechanics.
• Intensive treatment is reserved for non-responsive or worsening cases.
• Patient education at discharge is vital for therapeutic adherence and long-term outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Effective emergency room management of acute asthma requires early functional assessment and prompt treatment.
• Pharmacological and ventilatory strategies are key components of acute care.
• Post-discharge patient education is essential for improving long-term asthma control and adherence.