Asthma

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

A chronic respiratory condition characterised by the inflammation, and thus narrowing of the airways.

Question 2

Physiology

Answer 2

The airways react to something, causing the muscles to spasm and therefore the airway narrows. The cells of the airway may also produce more mucus, narrowing the airways even more.

Question 3

Causes of Asthma

Answer 3

• Inheritance (inherited tendency to develop allergies and parents with asthma)
• Childhood respiratory infection

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

• coughing
• wheezing
• chest tightness
• shortness of breath

Question 5

Symptom antagonists

Answer 5

• dust, fur, pollen, pollution, fags,
• certain medication
• upper respiratory tract infections
• physical activitt
• cold weather
• stress

Question 6

Potential risks

Answer 6

• pre-eclampsia
• pih
• pph
• lbw
• iugr
• preterm labour
• fetal hypoxia

Question 7

Treatment

Answer 7

• beta-2 antagonists (relax)
• inhaled steroids (inflammation)
• oral steroids (inflammation)
• oral theophylinnes (relax)
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists (relax)

Question 8

Ante/intra/post

Answer 8

• refer, medication advise, birth plan
• physiological pushing
• breast feeding support, voltarol avoidance, support for nutrition and sleep

Question 9

Changes to respiratory system in pregnancy

Answer 9

• increase in thoracic cage (ribs flare)
• increase in total lung capacity
• increase in tidal volume
• increase in minute volume
• dilation of airways below larynx
• capillary engorgement of nasal, oropharyngeal and larynx