Severe acute asthma attacks that do not respond to ordinary treatment with a bronchial inhaler such as generic Proventil HFA are often referred to as status asthmaticus; these attacks may lead to respiratory failure and require emergency acute asthma treatment. Symptoms of a severe, acute asthma attack include shortness of breath, breathlessness even while resting, difficulty speaking in complete sentences, a bluish tinge to the lips, and a closed sensation in the chest. Some patients may be observed standing and stretching in an attempt to open the airways, and they may exhibit confusion, agitation, and an inability to concentrate.
If these symptoms do not respond immediately to a generic Proventil HFA inhaler, emergency medical care is necessary to prevent respiratory failure. Status asthmaticus generally occurs due to severe asthma acute exacerbation, where the patient is exposed to allergens or environmental triggers that cause the bronchial constriction and inflammation typical of asthma.
While it is not fully understood why some asthma sufferers experience severe acute asthma attacks, medical practitioners believe that they occur more often in individuals who tend to neglect their health care, leading to poorly controlled asthma. These individuals often do not make use of bronchodilator inhalers such as generic Proventil HFA for their asthma symptoms; in addition, they typically do not use a peak flow monitor to track their air flow and prevent severe asthma acute exacerbation.
In order to diagnose status asthmaticus, your doctor will take note of your outward physical symptoms, including consciousness, chest movement, respiratory rate, and the presence of wheezing on both inhaling and exhaling.
Additional tests, such as oxygen saturation of the blood and peak expiratory flow, can help determine if you are suffering from an acute asthma attack. Because severe asthma attacks often do not respond to inhalers, a constant anti-inflammatory nebulizer may be used, along with injections of steroids such as epinephrine or prednisone. In more serious cases, a mechanical ventilator may be necessary until the lungs recover enough to resume breathing on their own.
In this case, oxygen will be delivered via a face mask or a breathing tube. Some patients may require a stay in intensive care until they are able to breath normally on their own. Status astmaticus is a potentially life-threatening condition that should be taken seriously. In order to avoid an acute attack, it is critically important that you monitor your asthma symptoms and begin treatment as soon as you notice signs of an attack. In addition, you should visit your doctor periodically to evaluate your lung function and make sure your medications are working correctly.
Take all medications as directed, and make sure you refill your prescription inhalers before they run out; keep your inhaler with you at all times. With proper medical care, avoidance of known asthma triggers, and close management of your condition, you can avoid the occurrence of severe acute asthma attacks and live a normal, healthy and fulfilling life.
