In this section you will discover a selection of articles that you will find useful in helping you to optimise the care of your patients with asthma.
This summary covers the NICE guideline on the diagnosis, monitoring and management of chronic asthma. The guideline aims to improve the accuracy of diagnosis, help people control their asthma and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
The 2019 update of the BTS/SIGN asthma guideline places increased emphasis on the importance of monitoring control, and assessing the risk of future asthma attacks at every review. The approach to pharmacological management has been simplified.
The latest GINA report clarifies the concept of independent risk factors for exacerbation and puts new emphasis on the importance of uncontrolled asthma symptoms. It also updates advice about FeNO testing in diagnosis and ongoing treatment.
GINA updated its strategy for asthma management and prevention for adults and children older than 5 years. Its recommendations are based on twice-yearly reviews of relevant evidence by an expert scientific committee, and provide a benchmark against which healthcare professionals can judge national guidance, which may not be updated as frequently.
Poor inhaler technique is widespread and undermines the effectiveness of therapy. Furthermore, there is evidence that healthcare professionals are not always able to demonstrate and teach correct technique. This article covers the basic principles including inspiratory flow rate and teaching aids.