Asthma

Question 1

Define Asthma

Answer 1

This is a chronic inflammatory airway disease with reversible airway obstruction.

Question 2

What are the causes of asthma?

Answer 2

-genetic
-air pollution
-smoking and cooking indoors
-perennial allergens
-food allergy
-viral infections like common cold
-strong scents like perfumes
-second hand smoke

Question 3

Give examples of perennial allergens

Answer 3

pollen, animal hair especially dog and cat hair. Household dust, mites.

Question 4

Give examples of food allergens

Answer 4

nuts,fish,chocolate,milk

Question 5

What are the clinical features of Asthma?

Answer 5

-recurrent cough
-shortness of breath
-wheezing
-chest indrawing
-cyanosis upon examination
-agitation
-increased respiratory rate
-lethargy

Question 6

Define cyanosis

Answer 6

tongue and eyes look blue

Question 7

What are the tests for asthma?

Answer 7

-FBC
-Urea and electrolytes
-Chest x-ray
-Peak explorative flow meter to asses vital capacity.

Question 8

What are the complications of asthma?

Answer 8

-severe cyanosis
-respiratory failure
-heart failure
-Chronic Obstructory Airway disease.

Question 9

List the types of asthma

Answer 9

-Intermittent asthma
-Mild asthma
-Moderate asthma
-Severe asthma

Question 10

How do you treat asthma?

Answer 10

-give oxygen
-intravenous fluids
-nebulized sabutamol inhalations
-steroids

Question 11

How do you prevent asthma?

Answer 11

-avoid precipitating factors such as cold water, pollen, animal hair
-reduce environmental pollution