Conditions Flashcards
What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is an umbrella term for a group of lung conditions which make it harder to empty air out of the lungs as the airways have been narrowed and air gets trapped in your chest.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a long term lung disease. Very sensitive airways narrow when they come into contact with things that irritate them. Airways also become inflamed causing a build up of sputum, narrowing further. This makes it harder for air in or out of the airways.
What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a type of chest infection. The alveoli get inflamed and fill with fluid, making it harder to breath.
What is cystic fibrosis?
An affected gene affects the movement of water and salt and means CF patients experience a thick, sticky build up of mucus. This is from birth.
What is bronchiectasis?
A LTC where the airway is abnormally widened. This leads to a build up of excess mucus which can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection.
What is chronic bronchitis?
The airways have been inflamed and narrowed. Involves a long term cough, with mucus.
What is emphysema?
The tiny air sacs at the end of the lungs have been damaged. The lungs become baggy and full of bigger holes which trap air. Involves damage to the lungs over time.
What are the types of COPD?
Bronchitis and emphysema
Who is likely to develop COPD?
Develops from long term damage from breathing in a substance; for example smoking or due to your job (Dust, fumes and chemicals).
