17. Asthma

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Lining is thickened, reddened, bronchospasm, mucous. Narrowing of passageways of alveoli –> difficulty breathing.
Three characteristics: Airflow limitations, airway hyper responsiveness, inflammation of bronchi

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

Unknown. Hereditary and environmental factors.

Question 3

Symptoms

Answer 3

Coughing, wheezing, SOB, tightness of chest.

Can be mild, moderate, severe or life threatening.

Question 4

What is an asthma attack

Answer 4

Won’t go away without treatment. Rapidly worsening symptoms, severe SOB, can’t speak comfortably, blue lips, little/no relief from inhaler.
Tightened smooth muscles, air trapped in alveoli. Degree of bronchoconstriction is higher

Question 5

Pathophysiology/causes

Answer 5

Flow of air is restricted due to narrowing of bronchi and bronchioles.
Bronchospasm due to: Constriction of smooth muscles airways, chronic inflammation –> swelling of airways, production of extra. mucous due to inflammation and asthma triggers. All casting the airways to narrow and swell

Question 6

Asthma triggers

Answer 6

House dust mites, pollen, mould, cigarette smoke, animal fur or pet dander, pollution, cold weather, cockroach droppings

Question 7

Risk factors

Answer 7

Family history, eczema, hay fever, early developmental exposure due to smoking, obesity, occupational chemicals

Question 8

Diagnosis

Answer 8

Spirometry test, examination of signs and symptoms, family history

Question 9

Risk factors for asthma attack:

Answer 9

Lower respiratory infections, over eating, anxiety physiological stress, laugher, early morning hours, negative sleep factors

Question 10

Co-occurring conditions

Answer 10

COPD, chronic infections, obstructive sleep apnoea

Question 11

Treatment

Answer 11

Bronchodilator medication, avoidance of triggers, elimination of inflammation, breathing retaining, peak flow meter, medication. Education, written asthma action plan