This article advances the theory that the key to creating an effective partnership is teaching
asthma patients what to self-treat, how to self-treat, and when to consult a clinician. The five comanaging rules that the health educator is encouraged to emphasize with the adult
asthma patient are: know your own unique
asthma symptoms and triggers; keep written records; see appropriate specialists; know your medicines and follow your action plan; and accept no treatment you do not understand. Current research shows
asthma to be a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. In susceptible individuals, this
inflammation causes recurrent episodes of
wheezing,
breathlessness, chest tightness, and
cough, particularly at night and in the early morning. The stepwise approach to
asthma therapy divides
asthma into several levels of severity. However, patients at any level of severity can have mild, moderate, or severe exacerbations.
Asthma triggers; how to use a
metered dose inhaler (
MDI), a dry powder inhaler (DPI), and a peak flow meter; and how to follow an
asthma action plan are thoroughly covered. The last section of the article deals at length with the indications for and actions of long-term-control medications, used to achieve and maintain control of persistent
asthma, and quick-relief medications, used to treat symptoms and exacerbations.