[Asthma in the elderly]

ABSTRACT

Asthma in elderly is actually well individualized. Two entities are considered - "Ageing asthmatics" who have had asthma since childhood, adolescence or adulthood and persisting after 65 years old. This situation is the most frequent.- Late-onset asthmatics in persons 65 years old and more. Clinically, asthma in elderly is frequently represented by a dyspnoea at rest during the day. Diagnosis remains difficult because of the non-specifity of clinical symptoms and the frequency of comorbidity. Many differential diagnosis must be considered, dominated by congestive heart failure and COPD. Concerning treatment of asthma in the elderly, a few particularities should be known prudence in the prescription of beta-2-adrenergic drugs. Anticholinergic drugs have a place in the treatment. contrary to younger asthmatics. A great importance to inhalation devices should be allowed because of their use difficulties in the elderly. The main goal of asthma management in the elderly is to improve the quality of life