Asthma Flashcards
Asthma in general
Chronic INFLAMMATORY disorder of the airways, characterized by episodic reversible bronchospasm resulting from an exaggerated bronchoconstrictor response to some stimuli
Types of asthma
Extrinsic and Intrinsic, drug induced and occupational, Cough variant and exercised induced, and Aspergillosis allergy
How is asthma classified in the clinic>
Evaluate the asthma based on whether it is intermittent or persistent.
Then is it controlled, partially controlled, or uncontrolled
How do we treat intermittent asthma
Albuterol inhaler.
Persistent controlled
Inhaled steroids
Persistent partially controlled treatment
long acting beta agonists
Persistent uncontrolled
Leukotriene modifiers
Whats the problem with using long acting beta agonists>
They lead to increased mortality…use cautiously
Extrinsic asthma is called that why?
Because it is triggered by extrinsic sources (allergens)
IgE mediated- should see elevated levels in the serum
Usually a family history
Common allergens
dust mites, cockroach, pets, mold
Intrinsic Asthma is named for what?
Caused by intrinsic resp infection. No raised IgE, No family history, Usually adult onset
WHa tis Samter’s syndrome
Aspirin sensitivity….can go along with aspirin induced asthma.
Leads to angioedema, nasal polyps, flushing, uticaria
When does exercise induced asthma begin?
immediately AFTER exercise. Triggered by the cooling and drying of airways. It is thought that this encourages mast cells to release histamine.
Pre-treat with a Beta agonist, warm up slowly before exercise
History of chronic cough with irritants such as cig smoke may be a sign of
cough variant asthma, this may be the only symptom. Diagnosis may be a positive response to treatment. Methacholine inhallation challenge test may aid in the diagnosis
Nocturnal asthma is thought to be caused by
decline of catecholamines and cortisol at night
