Asthma Overveiw Flashcards
Definition
Airway obstruction due to type 1 hypersensitivity reaction or hyper-responsiveness of tissue
Constriction in small bronchi and bronchioles
Classification
Intrinsic
Extrinsic
Extrinsic
Acute episodes triggered by type 1 hypersensitivity reactions
IgE and sensitized IgE is triggering mast cells to produce histamine
-result: broncho- constriction, excess mucous production, airway obstruction
Triggered by environment
Intrinsic
Issue with tissue
Adulthood onset
Hyper- responsiveness of tissue due to infection, stress, exposure to cold, exercise, inhalation of irritants, drugs. Pathophysiology beyond this class
In reaction the BV become ____ because vessels are dilating during the inflammatory response, resulting in ___ ______. The buildup of ____ will further constrict the airways and decrease area for ____. b_____ may occur
Engorged Closing airway Mucous Diffusion Broncho- spasming
Clinical manifestations EARLY
tight chest expiratory wheezing SOB pain breathing fast breathing Non productive cough
Clinical manifestations SEVERE
Wheezing on inspiration and expiration Use of accessory muscles Worsening dyspnea Expel mucous Increased HR Hypoxemia and hypoxia
Status asthmaticus
Severe persistent asthma attack
Not responding to treatment and worsening
Fatal due to severe hypoxia and acidosis that follows
Pulses paradoxes
Diagnosis
Hx and physical Find triggers FEV 1 ABGS- Hypoxemia, hypercapnea, acidosis Eosinophils (related to allergic condition) Chest x Ray- hyperinflation Pulse oximetry
Treatment
Know and avoid triggers
Good ventilation
For acute attack= short acting inhalers like abuterol; broncho-dilatory and gluccorticoids
Breathing techniques
4 categories of asthma- based on how often they use their short acting bronchodilator, how difficult to fall asleep
Mild intermittent
Mild persistent
Moderate persistent
Severe persistent
Pathophysiology of acute episodes
Inflammation bronchoconstriction Increased mucous production Obstruction Repeat attacks lead to damage
