COPD

Question 1

What are the two types of COPD?

Answer 1

Chronic bronchitis & emphysema

Question 2

What is chronic bronchitis?

Answer 2

Inflammation that narrows the airways, an increase in mucous, and the inhibition of cilia. Leads to an accumulation of secretions and bronchoconstriction due to irritant activation, which causes the chronic cough

Question 3

What is emphysema?

Answer 3

The walls of the alveoli are destroyed by enzymes called proteases. These are usually kept in check by anti-proteases, but smoking (for example) disrupts this, the alveoli are destroyed leading to collapse of the airway. In addition, the walls of the alveoli are destroyed. If blister like bullae form air can get directly into the pleural cavity causing pneumothroax.

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of COPD?

Answer 4

Increased dyspnoea
Increased sputum/purulence (containing pus)
Increased cough
Upper airway symptoms
Wheeze
Fluid retention
Fatigue & confusion
^RR
Pursed lip breathing
Accessory muscles
Cyanosis
Peripheral edema

Question 5

Management of COPD

Answer 5

ABCDE
O2 - 88-92%
Venturi mask or nasal cannula. If Venturi with RR >30, increase flow by 50%
Salbutamol & iprutropium

Question 6

Medications for COPD

Answer 6

Salbutamol

Iprutroprium