Acute asthma during pregnancy

In addition to preventing maternal and fetal hypoxia, the goals of treating acute asthma exacerbation during pregnancy mirror those in the nongravid patient: rapid reversal of airflow obstruction with aerosolized bronchodilators, reduction of likelihood of recurrence by the addition of corticosteroids, and ongoing assessment of mother and fetus. Disposition decisions are multifaceted and must take into account the health and well-being of the pregnant patient and that of her fetus. Discharge planning includes prescription of scheduled beta-2 agonist treatments until symptoms resolve, intensification of daily treatment as needed, prescriptions for systemic and inhaled corticosteroids, as well provision of patient education, a personalized action plan, and close follow-up.