Asthma Flashcards
1
Q
What is the pathophysiology of asthma?
A
-Acute: histamine, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, cytokines
-chronic inflamm: early structural changes
-airway remodelling: smooth muscle and goblet cell hyperplasia
ALL LEADS TO AIRFLOW LIMITATION AND AIRWAY HYPERRESPONSIVENESS
2
Q
What are predisposing factors for asthma?
A
- atopy
- genetic
- female
3
Q
Why do they do pursed lip breathing?
A
Increased End expiratory pressures to keep airways patent
4
Q
What are auscultatory findings during an asthma attack?
A
- polyphonic wheezes (effects all airways) expiratory
- reduced breath sounds
- reduced heart sounds
- pulsus paradoxus
5
Q
How do you diagnose asthma?
A
- demonstrate reversible airway obstruction
- peak flow or spirometer
6
Q
What are the goals of asthma management?
A
- control symptoms
- prevent exacerbations
- maximise lung function
- maintain normal levels of activity
7
Q
What drugs are used in long term management?
A
- SABA
- inhaled corticosteroid
8
Q
How do you treat an acute asthma attack?
A
- oxygen
- oral prednisolone/IV hydrocortisone
- regular bronchodilators
- IV magnesium
- ICU admission
9
Q
What are risk factors for death from an attack?
A
- previous serious attack
- poor medical control
- poor access to health system
