Asthma and COPD Flashcards
what is asthma ?
allergic type inflammation of the airways leading to smooth muscle contraction and mucus production
what is asthma associated with ?
allergy, atopy (eczema and hay fever), obesity, genetics
what are the characteristics of asthma ?
reversibility, variability, hyper-reactivity
what are the common provocative factors of asthma ?
viral infections, allergic exposure eg pollen, fur, dust, exercise, cold air, fumes, stress, beta blockers
what are the provocative factors of asthma in dentistry ?
latex, tooth enamel dust, fissure sealants, methyl methacrylate, stress, NSAIDs
how is the severity of an asthma attack measured ?
peak flow
what is the definition of a severe acute asthma attack ?
PEFR 25/min, pulse >110/min
what is the definition of a life threatening acute asthma attack ?
PEFR
what are the treatments for asthma ?
beta agonists, short acting salbutamol, terbutaline.
long acting salmeterol.
corticosteroids eg beclometasone, anti muscarinics eg ipratropium,
montelukast
what is COPD ?
commonest form of smoking related lung disease, characterised by airflow obstruction that is not fully reversible
what are the causes of COPD ?
smoking anything, coal mining, air pollution, alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency
what are the symptoms of COPD ?
breathlessness, cough, purulent sputum production, ankle swelling
what is COPD exacerbated by ?
infection
what are the treatments for COPD ?
stop smoking, beta agonists, anti muscarinics, steroids, oxygen, theophylline
what are the effects of COPD and asthma on oral health ?
xerostomia, candidiasis, mucosal ulceration, gingivitis and periodontitis
