Chronic and acute asthma. Keys to successful management.

The goal of chronic asthma management is to maintain maximal bronchodilation, which is achieved by regular monitoring of ventilatory function and by use of bronchodilators. A trial of corticosteroid is justified if symptoms are not controlled and marked improvement in forced expiratory volume in one second is not achieved by appropriate use of bronchodilating agents. Corticosteroids should also be used if symptoms exacerbate. If hospitalization is required, a more rigorous therapeutic program, which may involve oxygenation, aminophylline and/or corticosteroid administration, fluid therapy, and ventilatory support, should be instituted.