Asthma Flashcards
Pathophysiology of Asthma? (3)
- Airway narrowing due to broncoconstriction
- Inflammation caused by mast cell degranulation
- Increased mucus production
List 4 symptoms of Asthma?
- Dry cough with wheeze
- Chest tightness
- Dyspnoea
- diurnal variation
What Family history is linked to asthma?
Family history of Asthma or Hx of other atopic conditions
List 4 signs of Asthma on examination
- Chest deformities
- Hyperinflation
- Hyper-resonance due to hyperinflation
- Prolonged expiratory phase with expiratory wheeze on auscultation
Describe the pattern of symptoms in Asthma?
Episodic and diurnal variability of symptoms (tend to be worst at night)
Is airway obstruction in asthma reversible or irreversible?
reversible
List 4 typical triggers of Asthma
- Dust (house dust mites)
- Animals
- Cold air
- Exercise
- Smoke
- Food allergens
Describe the wheeze heard in Asthma
Bilateral widespread “polyphonic” wheeze
First line investigation for Asthma
Spirometry FEV1/FVC <70%
List the investigations for Asthma
(In order)
- Spirometry with reversibility testing (>5yrs)
- Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO)
- Direct bronchial challenge test
- Peak flow variability
Stepwise management of Asthma?
- SABA
- SABA + ICS
- SABA + ICS + LRA
- SABA + ICS + LRA + LABA
- MART
- Theophylline
Example of a SABA?
Salbutamol
Example of a LABA?
Salmeterol
Example of a LRA?
Montelukast
Example of a LAMA
Tiotropium