Therapeutic approach to the treatment of acute asthma in childhood
Pohunek, P.
Ceskoslovenska Pediatrie 48(2): 97-102
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0069-2328 PMID: 8477482 Document Number: 409396
Acute deterioration of bronchial asthma with development of dyspnoea which involves the risk of failure of vital functions call for rapid and specialized therapeutic action which will prevent further deterioration of the condition and an as rapid as possible return of pulmonary functions to the range of normal values. In the treatment of acute asthma in the field as well as in in-patient departments different procedures are applied frequently based on tradition of the given department. In the submitted paper the author recapitulates recent views on the role of different procedures and the most frequently used drugs. The basis of modern therapy of acute asthma is above all inhalation treatment, high and frequent doses of beta 2-adrenergic preparations in particular during the initial stages of treatment and anti-inflammatory treatment with steroids. Theophyllines are considered drugs of second choice, the administration of infusions is also of limited importance. To ensure early treatment of acute asthma satisfactory and skilled cooperation of the patient and his closest surroundings is essential. Early therapeutic response to a deteriorating condition can substantially reduce the risk of development of serious conditions and reduce the need of hospital treatment.