Status Asthmaticus | Quick Medical Overview
Status asthmaticus is a severe and life-threatening form of asthma that does not respond to standard asthma treatments. It is characterized by increasingly severe asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness that do not improve with medication. Without prompt and aggressive treatment, status asthmaticus can lead to respiratory failure and even death. Treatment typically involves high-dose inhaled or intravenous corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and sometimes mechanical ventilation to support breathing. It is important for individuals with asthma to seek immediate medical attention if they experience worsening symptoms that do not improve with their usual medications.