Complications
Inflammatory changes and immunologic cell infiltration could damage the epithelium, which leads to an escalating cycle of damage and inflammation.[8]
Short-acting bronchodilators provide symptomatic relief and temporary bronchodilation, and corticosteroids suppress inflammation. However, if corticosteroids are withheld or are ineffective, symptom relapse or delayed response to therapy could occur.
Bacterial infections may precipitate asthma exacerbations.[8] In addition, patients with refractory asthma on oral corticosteroids may be at increased risk for opportunistic infections. If an infiltrate is seen on chest radiograph in the setting of an asthma exacerbation, the clinician should consider the addition of antibiotics.
May be a result of barotrauma.
Pneumothorax with asthma exacerbation is a rare presentation.[98] When present, pneumothorax can be life-threatening, but can be resolved using a chest thoracostomy tube.
Risk factors for respiratory failure and death from asthma include:
A history of prior intubation for asthma exacerbation
Three or more emergency room visits in the past year or hospitalization for asthma in the past month
Use of more than two inhalers of short-acting bronchodilators per month
Current use of systemic corticosteroids at the time of exacerbation
Cardiovascular comorbidities and low socioeconomic status.
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