Bronchial asthma in adults.

Adults with bronchial asthma present a complex problem. Heredity, atopy, and food allergy diminish while inhalant allergy, infection, and degenerative changes increase in importance. Cystic fibrosis has been encountered with increasing frequency in adults and should be considered as a possible cause in wheezing. Treatment plans for bronchial asthma should include measures to (1) relieve bronchospasm, (2) reduce edema and evacuate mucus from the bronchi, (3) control allergenic factors, (4) treat infection when it is present, and (5) improve the general health of the patient. Concomitant cardiovascular changes in the elderly asthmatic patient require careful selection and dosage of drugs of the sympathomimetic group. The palliative effect of steroids, through their anti-inflammatory action on the allergic reaction, is well documented. Such preparations should, however, be used in conjunction with a well-rounded program in the treatment of bronchial asthma.