Asthma like symptoms spontaneously go into remission in a substantial proportion of children 5 years and younger. Therefore, the continued need for asthma treatment in this age group should be assessed at least twice a year. Component 4 - Manage Asthma Exacerbations: Exacerbations of asthma (asthma attacks or acute asthma) are episodes of progressive increase in shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, or chest tightness, or some combination of these symptoms. Severe exacerbations are potentially life threatening, and their treatment requires close supervision. Patients with severe exacerbations should be encouraged to see their physician promptly or, depending on the organization of local health services, to proceed to the nearest clinic or hospital that provides emergency.
