Asthma Flashcards
1
Q
Describe the Epidemiology of Asthma
A
1 in 4 New Zealand children has asthma.
2
Q
What causes of asthma?
A
Factors that cause:
• Airway inflammation
• Intermittent airflow obstruction
• Bronchial hyperresponsiveness
3
Q
Give some examples of causes of asthma
A
- Obesity
- GERD
- Stress
- Exercise, hyperventilation
- Viral respiratory tract infections
- Maternal smoking
- Environmental allergens (eg, house dust mites; animal allergens, especially cat and dog; cockroach allergens; and fungi)
- Environmental pollutants, tobacco smoke
- Irritants (eg, household sprays, paint fumes)
4
Q
Signs and symptoms of asthma include:
A
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Chest tightness
- Use of accessory muscles
- Pursed lips
- Inability to speak
5
Q
Describe the expiratory phase of respiration in asthmatics
A
• Prolonged, with an inspiratory: expiratory ratio of 1:3
6
Q
Why would patients with severe bronchoconstriction have no audible wheezing?
A
Because of markedly limited airflow.
