Diseases
status asthmaticus
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Status asthmaticus is a medical emergency, an extreme form of asthma exacerbation characterized by hypoxemia, hypercarbia, and secondary respiratory failure.
Symptoms
- severe shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, and coughing or wheezing
- low peak expiratory flow (pef) readings, if you use a peak flow meter
- wheezing.
- heavy sweating
- symptoms that fail to respond to use of a quick-acting (rescue) inhaler
Causes
- pollen, pets, mold and dust mites
- upper respiratory infections
- tobacco smoke
Risk factors
- if had a severe asthma attack in the past
- previously required intubation for an asthma attack
Diagnosis
- lung function tests include: peak flow, spirometry, ...
- ... nitric oxide measurement, and pulse oximetry.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is status asthmaticus?
Status asthmaticus is a medical emergency, an extreme form of asthma exacerbation characterized by hypoxemia, hypercarbia, and secondary respiratory failure.
What are the symptoms of status asthmaticus?
severe shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, and coughing or wheezing, low peak expiratory flow (pef) readings, if you use a peak flow meter, wheezing., heavy sweating, symptoms that fail to respond to use of a quick-acting (rescue) inhaler
What causes status asthmaticus?
pollen, pets, mold and dust mites; upper respiratory infections; tobacco smoke
Which medicines are used for status asthmaticus?
hydrocortisone
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