Finally, it must also be remembered that asthma can be a major emotional and financial strain on the entire family. The idea that asthma will be outgrown is more a myth than reality. True, some individuals may reach a point where they no longer suffer asthmatic symptoms as they did in earlier years. But sophisticated testing would show these individuals still run the risk of attacks later in life. In severe cases, asthma can be life threatening.
Deaths occur more frequently in adults.
Usually, however, the airways can be opened and the attack controlled with medications. In a severe attack, the airways may become completely blocked leading to respiratory failure. This condition is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. It is important for asthmatics to learn to recognize severe episodes and how to prevent them. Some physicians blame the dramatic increase in asthma related deaths to an over-reliance on drugs designed to open obstructed airways.