Asthma can occur in the older person
Date
2005
Authors
Adams, R.
Ruffin, R.
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Journal article
Citation
Medicine Today: the peer reviewed journal of clinical practice, 2005; 6(1):40-44
Statement of Responsibility
Robert J. Adams and Richard E. Ruffin
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Abstract
• Asthma does occur in older people and can present as a new diagnosis. Up to 35% of people aged over 55 years with asthma are undiagnosed. • It is important to remember that older people with asthma may attribute reduced exercise capacity to ageing. Consideration should be given to screening this age group for asthma. • Drug treatments for comorbidities are common in older patients and are relevant potential trigger factors for asthma. • Issues regarding inhalers influence the choice of medication in older patients. Potential problems include poor co-ordination or arthritis, and oropharyngeal side effects. • Reduced perception of bronchoconstriction is more common in older patients. Confirmation of lung function with objective testing is often helpful in such cases. • A written action plan is an essential part of management and may need to be given to a patient's carer. • Important gains in quality of life can be achieved by treating asthma in older people appropriately.
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