Myths, morbidity, and mortality in asthma
R. P. McCombs, F. C. Lowell and J. L. Ohman Jr
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. There have
been many worthwhile studies refuting these myths, leading to the following
conclusions: Asthma consists of much more than wheezing and in many cases
must be treated long after wheezing stops. There is no 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 postive-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.