Asthma

Question 1

Triggers of acute asthma

Answer 1

• Infection
• Cold air
• Exercise
• Allergens

Question 2

3 hallmarks of asthma

Answer 2

• Airflow limitation (reversible)
• Airway hyperresponsiveness
• Bronchial inflammation

Question 3

Symptoms of asthma

Answer 3

• Cough
• Expiratory wheeze
• Dyspnoea
• Chest tightness
• Nocturnal symptoms

Question 4

Diagnosis of asthma on spirometry

Answer 4

+12% and +200 mL in FEV₁ with bronchodilator

Question 5

Risk factors for asthma

Answer 5

• FHx
• Atopy
• Obesity
• Smoking

Question 6

Signs of severe asthma attack

Answer 6

• Speaking in short phrases
• Loud wheezes or silent chest (no wheezes)
• Cyanosis
• Altered mental state
• Obs
  
  • SaO₂ <90%
  • HR >120 bpm
  • RR >30 breaths/min
  • FEV₁ or PEF <40%

Question 7

Management of asthma

Answer 7

• SABA
  
  • Salbutamol
  • Terbutaline
• ICS
  
  • Fluticasone propionate/furoate
  • Budesonide
• LABA + ICS
  
  • Seretide - fluticasone + salmeterol
  • Symbicort - budesonide + eformoterol