GOALS OF ASTHMA THERAPY

Objective: The purpose of this article is to facilitate the management of patients with asthma. The article will discuss the components of optimal care and asthma therapy. Data Sources: References are limited to the English language. Also included are descriptions of experiences based on the clinical practice of the author. Study Selection: Papers were selected on the basis of their timeliness, explanation of important findings related to clinical practice, and the treatment of asthma. Results: Effective asthma management requires understanding of asthma pathophysiology and how and when to provide asthma treatment, which includes specific, symptomatic, and adjunctive therapies. Optimal care entails a thorough knowledge of the goals of asthma therapy, including preventing asthma symptoms, maintaining nearly normal pulmonary function and activity levels, preventing asthmatic exacerbations, and avoiding adverse effects from asthma medications. For patients with an allergic component to their disease, allergen avoidance and immunotherapy can cure or at least significantly improve a patient's asthma. Using an ''Asthma Action Plan,'' patients can be instructed on how to prevent symptoms of asthma from occurring and how to maintain normal or nearly normal pulmonary function by monitoring their pulmonary function ''zone,'' based on daily peak flow meter results. At the present time, asthma is treated inadequately in the United States, but the situation can be improved primarily through education. Conclusions: The goals of asthma therapy are achievable in the US if several objectives are met: physicians are taught asthma pathophysiology; patients are educated about the prevention and treatment of asthma; the importance of an evaluation by an allergist is recognized; and patients are provided access to good medical care.