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Emergency Management of Acute Asthma Attack

Emergency department and intensive care approach to severe asthma exacerbation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Emergency Management of Acute Asthma Attack?

A severe asthma attack is an emergency in which rapidly progressive bronchospasm can lead to respiratory failure. Silent chest (absence of wheezing) and cyanosis are poor prognostic findings.

Nebulized salbutamol, ipratropium bromide and systemic corticosteroids are first-line therapy. Intravenous magnesium sulfate provides additional bronchodilation in moderate to severe attacks. Mechanical ventilation may be required in life-threatening cases.

Symptoms

Severe shortness of breath
Expiratory wheezing
Inability to complete sentences
Use of accessory respiratory muscles
Tachycardia (above 120/min)
PEF below 50% (of predicted or personal best)

Risk Factors

Previous ICU admission or intubation
Hospitalization within the last year
More than three emergency visits in the past year
Systemic steroid use or recent steroid withdrawal
Psychiatric illness or non-adherence

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Shortness of breath unresponsive to rescue inhaler — EMERGENCY
  • Inability to speak, eat or drink
  • Bluish lips (cyanosis)
  • Confusion or agitation
  • PEF below 50% with worsening

Treatment Methods

01
Nebulized salbutamol (5 mg, three doses every 20 minutes in the first hour)
02
Adding ipratropium bromide in severe attacks
03
Systemic corticosteroid (prednisolone 40-50 mg or IV methylprednisolone)
04
IV magnesium sulfate (2 g over 20 minutes in severe attack)
05
High-flow oxygen (target SpO2 93-95%)
06
Non-invasive or mechanical ventilation in life-threatening attack

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.