Article Highlights
What is Status Asthmaticus
This is a severe form of asthma in which the airway obstruction is unresponsive to usual drug therapy. The attacks can last longer than 24 hours. During status asthmaticus, the airways in the lungs become severely inflamed and constricted, leading to persistent wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. These symptoms can worsen rapidly, making it extremely difficult for individuals to breathe effectively.
Contributory factors
- Infection
- Dehydration
- Anxiety
- Overdose of sedatives
- Inhalation of air pollutants and allergens
- Noncompliance in taking medications including over use of bronchodilators
Signs & Symptoms of Status Asthmaticus
- Use of accessory muscles of respiration
- Labored breathing with increased effort on exhalation
- Diminished breath sounds
- Anxiety, irritability
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Diaphoresis
- Tachycardia
- Hypertension
- Cold extremities
Medical Management
- Seek medical care immediately
- Strict monitoring of respiratory rate, BP, and oxygen saturation
- Administer oxygen therapy
- Administer and record intravenous fluids
Differences between Cardiac Asthma and Bronchial Asthma
| cardiac asthma | bronchial asthma | |
|---|---|---|
| origin | cardiopulmonary | respiratory |
| onset | gradual onset | acute episodes |
| cause | left ventricular failure | allergic reactions |
| duration | relatively long | short period which usually lasts 30min to an hour |
| medications | bronchodilators and cardiac glycosides (digoxin) | bronchodilators |
| symptoms | absence of Orthopnoea | presence of Orthopnoea |
