The threat and uncertainty involved in an asthma attack reduce the quality
of life for the patient. Life quality can be improved if the patient learns
self-management principles. This is easy to learn and involves a simple pr
ocedure requiring the patient to refer to written instructions in the event
of an asthma exacerbation. As a basis for treatment the patient needs to m
easure maximum peak flow, which can be done with an easy-to-use peak flow m
eter. A value above 80% of the personal best indicates that the treatment h
as been successful. By means of printed instructions in credit card format,
the appropriate treatment: for particular peak flow values and/or symptoms
can be looked up and administered. So far there have been no self-manageme
nt studies providing a definite answer on what interventions are effective
and cost-effective. One clear result is that inhaled steroid therapy must b
e initiated early. Learning self-management patently leads to improvement i
n the patient's life quality and safety. In the long run this concept appea
rs to be cost-saving with regard to days lost through sickness and hospital
ization.