Asthma Flashcards
What common history is present with asthma?
History of episodic wheezing, SOB, tightness in the chest and coughing.
Most common phenotype of asthma?
Allergic or Extrinsic Asthma
- immunologic (immunoglobulin E [IgE] mediated) response to certain environmental triggers; dust mites, pollen, mold, pet dander.
What is non-allergic (intrinsic) asthma?
Inflammatory response from exposure to smoke, fumes, cold air.
Asthma Pathophysiology?
Inflammation of the bronchial mucosa.
Leads to:
- Narrowing of of the airways
- Bronchospasm
- Increased bronchial secretions.
Signs and Symptoms
Cough
Dyspnea on exertion or at rest
Wheezing
What is the most common arterial blood gas finding?
Mild - Moderate Hypoxemia
Why might there be the presence of hypocapnia?
Increased minute ventilation
What is the consequence to increased narrowing of the air passageways?
Increased narrowing leads to:
- Increased resistance to airflow
- Air trapping
When may asthma symptoms be worse? (Times of day)
May be worse at night and early morning.
With severe airway obstruction how are breath sounds affected?
Decreased breath sounds (severe airway obstruction)
