| Popis: |
The objective of this review is to summarize the key points of asthma in elderly people including epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation and diagnosis and treatment. Although asthma was long considered a childhood disease, now it is clear that the disease is frequently diagnosed in adults over 65 years, with an incidence similar to that shown in other age groups. Furthermore, in advanced age population asthma is more severe, with more frequent exacerbations and higher mortality rate. From a pathophysiological point of view, two key processes are produced, immunosenescence and anatomical and mechanical changes with direct impact on lung function. The diagnosis should follow the same principles as the general population. However, underdiagnosis is frequent due to several factor such as comorbidities, poor perception of symptoms and reduction in physical activity. The treatment of these patients should pay particular attention to polypharmacy and multimorbidity. |
