Case ILOs Flashcards
What is gas exchange in the lungs?
The process by which oxygen enters the blood and carbon dioxide is removed.
Where does gas exchange occur in the lungs?
In the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs surrounded by capillaries.
What drives the process of gas exchange in the alveoli?
The diffusion of gases due to partial pressure gradients.
Which anatomical features of alveoli optimize gas exchange?
Thin walls, large surface area, and close proximity to capillaries.
What brainstem centers are involved in controlling ventilation?
The medulla oblongata and pons.
How is hypoxia detected in the body?
By peripheral chemoreceptors in the carotid and aortic bodies.
What is hypoxia?
A condition where there is a deficiency of oxygen in the tissues.
What is hypercapnia?
An excess of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream.
Which receptors detect hypercapnia?
Central chemoreceptors in the medulla.
Name two common environmental triggers of asthma.
Allergens (e.g., pollen) and air pollutants.
What is the prevalence of asthma globally?
Asthma affects about 300 million people worldwide.
What role does genetics play in asthma?
Family history of asthma or atopy increases risk.
What is atopy?
A genetic predisposition to develop allergic reactions.
Define bronchospasm in asthma.
The sudden constriction of the muscles in the bronchioles.
What is bronchial hyperresponsiveness?
An exaggerated response of the airways to stimuli, causing narrowing.
What causes wheezing in asthma?
Narrowing of the airways leading to turbulent airflow.
What immune mechanism underlies atopy in asthma?
IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to allergens.
What is the effect of mucus overproduction in asthma?
It blocks airways and impedes airflow.
Which parts of the bronchial tree are primarily affected in asthma?
The small airways, including bronchioles.
How does inflammation affect the bronchial tree in asthma?
Causes swelling and thickening of the airway walls.
Give an example of an agonist used in asthma treatment.
Beta-agonists like albuterol (salbutamol).
Define agonist in pharmacology.
A drug that binds to a receptor and activates it to produce a biological response.
Define antagonist in pharmacology.
A drug that binds to a receptor but does not activate it, blocking other substances from binding.
Give an example of an antagonist and its function.
Beta-blockers, which are contraindicated in asthma as they can cause bronchoconstriction.
How is peak flow used in asthma assessment?
Measures the maximum speed of exhalation, indicating airway narrowing.
What does a low peak flow measurement indicate?
Severe airway obstruction.
Why is oxygen saturation measured in asthma?
To assess the degree of hypoxia.
Where are β2-adrenoceptors primarily located?
In the lungs, where they mediate bronchodilation.
Name a sign of severe asthma exacerbation on physical examination.
Use of accessory muscles during breathing.
What is the primary mechanism of action of beta-agonists in asthma?
They stimulate β2-adrenoceptors, leading to bronchodilation.
Why are non-selective beta-blockers contraindicated in asthma?
They can block β2 receptors, causing bronchoconstriction.
Name a common side effect of beta-agonists.
Tachycardia (increased heart rate).
How do steroids help in asthma treatment?
They reduce inflammation in the airways.
What device is used to measure lung volumes and airflow?
Spirometer.
What is a side effect of long-term steroid use?
Risk of osteoporosis and adrenal suppression.
What does a low FEV1/FVC ratio indicate?
Obstructive airway disease like asthma.
Define peak flow.
The maximum flow rate achieved during a forceful exhalation.
Why is accuracy important in peak flow measurement?
It provides information on the severity of airway obstruction.
What is the necessity-concerns framework?
A model explaining medication adherence based on perceived need versus concerns.
Describe the spirit of motivational interviewing.
Collaborative, empathetic, and patient-centered approach for behavior change.
