ABSTRACT
Asthma is one of the most common chronic health conditions and is characterized by variable airflow obstruction. Not surprisingly, patients with asthma suffer intermittent exacerbations followed by variable degrees of “stability.” Several large-scale studies have examined the presentations of patients with asthma to emergency departments (ED). Using the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, investigators in the United States have demonstrated stable numbers of ED presentations, while Canadian studies have shown a decreasing rate of asthma presentations to the ED. Estimates of the disease severity, the need for hospitalization, and the risk of relapse following discharge by physicians are often inaccurate in acute asthma. Although the assessment of asthma severity is recommended by all major acute asthma guidelines, there is disagreement on the most suitable approach. The early treatment of acute asthma has generally focused on the use of inhaled short-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist agents because of their undisputed and generally rapid bronchodilation effect.
