MYTHS, MORBIDITY, AND MORTALITY IN ASTHMA

Persistence of outmoded concepts or myths concerning the diagnosis and treatment of asthma probably is responsible for large economic losses, overutilization of hospital beds and many preventable deaths. Asthma consists of much more than wheezing and in many cases must be treated long after wheezing stops. There is not convincing evidence relating the chronic pulmonary changes of asthma to the psyche. Modern methods of prescribing theophylline have not made it universally effective and safe. Intermittent positive-pressure breathing is rarely justified in asthma. Respiratory acidosis may be corrected only by improving alveolar ventilation. Corticosteroids are usually essential for control of severe asthma and may be used safely. Severe asthmatics need careful monitoring because sudden respiratory failure may occur.