5.3 Asthma Flashcards
What is asthma?
Chronic disorder of reversible airway obstruction, constriction and inflammation.
What is thought to cause asthma?
Occupation
Family links
Sensitivity to allergens- eg. fungal spores, dust, animal hair
What should be asked about in the history for a presenting asthma complaint?
Family history Hayfever Pets Smoke exposure Onset of symptoms
How is the airway remodelling in asthma?
The bronchial wall becomes thicker as smooth muscle increases. The lumen becomes narrowed.
List 3 things that can trigger asthma attacks?
Muscarinic antagonists
Histamine
Cold air
Prostaglandins
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Wheeze
Cough
Difficulty breathing on exercise
Chest tightness
How can asthma be managed?
Primary prevention- lose weight, stop smoking, avoid allergens
Airway relaxants- B2 agonists, muscarinic antagonists
What investigations can be done to confirm asthma?
PEFR Spirometry Exhaled NO Allergy testing Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
What pattern will a PEFR graph show?
Restrictive pattern- narrower curve as less air is reaching lungs
What will the results of the spirometry be?
Low FEV1/FVC ratio
FEV1 will be reduced due to restriction in the airways
FVC will be normal as lungs are not damaged
What will be heard on chest percussion?
Hyper-resonant sound
What will be heard on chest auscultation?
Polyphonic wheeze
