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An overview of asthma management

Topic Outline

GRAPHICS

INTRODUCTION

This overview topic presents the components and goals of asthma management. It is applicable to both children and adults. The information herein is consistent with "The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program: Expert Panel Report 3, Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma – Full Report 2007" [1]. Similar guidelines have been published by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) [2].

The diagnosis of asthma and more detailed management issues are reviewed elsewhere. (See "Diagnosis of asthma in adolescents and adults" and "Chronic asthma in children younger than 12 years: Evaluation and diagnosis" and "Chronic asthma in children younger than 12 years: Controller medications" and "Treatment of intermittent and mild persistent asthma in adolescents and adults" and "Treatment of moderate persistent asthma in adolescents and adults".)

COMPONENTS OF ASTHMA MANAGEMENT

The successful management of patients with asthma includes four essential components:

  • Routine monitoring of symptoms and lung function
  • Patient education to create a partnership between clinician and patient
  • Controlling environmental factors (trigger factors) and comorbid conditions that contribute to asthma severity
  • Pharmacologic therapy

GOALS OF ASTHMA TREATMENT

The goals of chronic asthma management may be divided into two domains: reduction in impairment, and reduction of risk [1].

                               

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Literature review current through: Apr 2013. | This topic last updated: Mar 12, 2013.
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References
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