Bronchial Asthma Exacerbation in the Emergency Department in a Saudi Pediatric Population: An Insight From a Tertiary Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background Severe uncontrolled asthma in the pediatric population is a complicated disease and is considered a major challenge for pediatricians. Severe bronchial asthma in the pediatric population is related to significant morbidity and mortality. Children with complicated asthma are at a higher risk for unfavorable outcomes, including medication-associated adverse effects, severe life-threatening exacerbations, and poor quality of life. Methodology A cohort study was conducted at National Guard Health Affairs Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using the chart review method utilizing a data collection sheet. A total of 363 charts of children aged one month to 14 years who visited the emergency room (ER) due to asthma exacerbation at NGHA were reviewed, from January 2016 to May 2022, to extract the variables. Variables included demographic data, comorbidities, and asthma-related variables which included the number of asthma exacerbations, hospital admission, ER visit, medication use (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids), and the presence of allergic rhinitis and eczema. Results A total of 363 patients were analyzed, with 229 (63.1%) males and 134 (36.9%) females. The mean age was 4.9 years (SD = 3.5 years). Overall, 8.5% of patients had congenital heart disease, 4.1% had gastroesophageal reflux disease, 2.2% had diabetes mellitus, 1.9% had obstructive sleep apnea, and 0.6% had hypertension. Most patients presented with a cough at 88.2% (n = 320), followed by shortness of breath at 59% (n = 214) and fever at 46% (n = 167). Male asthmatics visited ER more than females. Forty-four patients were admitted to the hospital. Inhaled steroids were associated with fewer emergency department visits and night symptoms. Most asthmatic patients presented in the winter and fall seasons. Conclusions Asthma is a common pediatric respiratory disease that could be a burden if not controlled well. Unfortunately, the frequency of hospital admissions and pediatric ER visits due to asthma exacerbation is increasing. Comorbidities such as obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease play a significant role in asthma control.