How do mild asthma exacerbations differ from severe ones?

Mild asthma exacerbations and severe exacerbations are categorized based on the intensity and impact on the patient's respiratory function. In cases of mild asthma exacerbations, symptoms can typically be managed effectively with quick-relief medications like short-acting beta-agonists. This allows the person to return to their normal level of activity without the need for more intensive medical intervention.

On the other hand, severe exacerbations represent a significant deterioration in asthma control and often require emergency treatment. This may involve several interventions, including systemic corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, and possibly hospitalization to ensure the patient receives appropriate care and monitoring. The distinction highlights the importance of recognizing the severity of exacerbation to provide timely and appropriate treatment, which can be life-saving in severe cases.

Understanding this difference is crucial for effective asthma management and can inform decisions made by patients and healthcare providers in response to worsening symptoms.