Asthma in the elderly Flashcards
1
Q
What are the most common triggers for asthma in the elderly?
A
Cold air Infection Tobacco smoke NSAIDs or aspirin Exercise Irritants Pollutants Occupational exposure
2
Q
What medications should be avoided in asthmatics?
A
B-blockers NSAIDS Non-potassium sparing diuretics Cholinergic agents ACEIs
3
Q
What symptoms are more likely to be attributed to a diagnosis of asthma than COPD in an older person who smokes/has smoked?
A
Episodic wheeze more common Nocturnal dyspnoea or cough more common Other allergic symptoms frequent PMH of asthma FHx of allergy Wheeze in absence of forced expiration or cough CXR normal Eosinophilia and +ve skin tests more common Total serum IgE elevated FEV1 improved with B2-agonist
