Asthma in the Emergency Room

Abstract

Bronchial asthma is an inflammatory process of the airway that is characterized functionally by highly reversible obstruction of both the large and the small airways. Subjectively, there may be a sense of irritation and a great deal of coughing, even when there is little or no obstruction.¹ The amount of discomfort or dyspnea that a patient perceives varies greatly and sometimes correlates poorly with objective measures of airway obstruction. Wheezing may be present when obstruction and even discomfort are minimal, and may be absent when obstruction is severe. Hyperinflation occurs in an attempt to keep the airways open. Marked inspiratory . . .