Asthma in the Elderly: Diagnostic Challenges - Therapeutic Considerations

Document Type

Review

Publication Date

10-1-1999

Description

Wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness raise suspicion of late-onset asthma in elderly patients. Nighttime awakening and coughing and wheezing after rather than during exertion are symptoms that distinguish asthma from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Chest radiography can help distinguish airway obstruction caused by asthma from that caused by lung cancer. Focus treatment on controlling symptoms, avoiding aggravation of co-morbid illnesses, and minimizing adverse drug interactions. Use β 2-agonists to manage overt symptoms; patients with mild persistent or moderate asthma require inhaled corticosteroids to control chronic airway inflammation. β-Blockers and NSAIDs can exacerbate asthma in elderly patients.

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