[Inhalation therapy in asthma].
Respiratory therapy, consists in the administration of gases or drugs via airways; it includes: oxygen, humidity, aerosol therapy, IPPB, chest physiotherapy and mechanical ventilation. Asthmatic patients frequently require oxygen support which is delivered by low and high flow systems, for best results, gases must be humidified, either by bubble or wick humidifiers, heat increases usefulness. Spray is produced by nebulizers and metered dose inhalers, the last are cheaper but they need a certain grade of coordination. Powder inhalers are easier to use. IPPB is indicated in patients with severe fatigue, this method is used sporadically. Chest physiotherapy teaches utilization of relaxation and inferior thoracic respiration techniques. Thoracic percussion must be avoided in an asthmatic crisis. Mechanical ventilation is delivered through a large bore canule, its goal is to assure an adequate gas exchange and to avoid respiratory muscular fatigue.