COPD

Question 1

What is the main inflammatory mediator of COPD?

Answer 1

• Neutrophils

Question 2

What are the clinical characteristics of COPD?

Answer 2

• Late onset
• Occupational/environmental exposure
• Smoking
• Cough, sputum plugs and SOB

Question 2

Which is the most effective intervention for COPD?

Answer 2

Smoking cessation

Question 2

What are 4 risk factors of COPD?

Answer 2

Smoking, dust, fumes, indoor and outdoor pollutants.

Question 2

What are the two conditions COPD encompasses?

Answer 2

Chronic Bronchitis, Enphysema

Question 2

How COPD used to be referred to at times?

Answer 2

COLD – Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease / COAD – Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease

Question 2

What technique should be offered to all COPD patients with functional impairment?

Answer 2

Pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity, dyspnoea, QoL, and reduces hospitalisation.

Question 2

Explain the pathophysiology of COPD

Answer 2

A progressive lung condition characterised by airway inflammation that is not fully reversible.
Onset is > 45.

Question 2

Name 4 diagnosis –relevant history in COPD.

Answer 2

Smoking History, Occupational exposure, presence or absence of other respiratory illness, Comorbidities

Question 2

What is the rationale for drug use in COPD?

Answer 2

Symptom relief
improvement of exercise tolerance and QoL
prevention or treatment of exacerbations and complications of COPD.

Question 2

What is the rationale for recommending to check immunisation status: pneumococcal and annual influenza vaccines in COPD?

Answer 2

Influenza vaccination decreases the risk of exacerbations due to influenza strains; pneumococcal vaccination reduces the risk of exacerbations and of community-acquired pneumonia.

Question 2

Name 4 clinical features differentiating COPD & Asthma.

Answer 2

Smoking – nearly all in COPD, possibly in Asthma
Symptoms under age 35 – rare in COPD, common in Asthma
Chronic Productive cough – common in COPD, uncommon in Asthma
Breathlessness – persistent and progressive in COPD, Variable in Asthma

Question 3

What is the primary cause of COPD?

Answer 3

COPD is primarily caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most commonly from smoking.

Question 4

What happens in the lungs during COPD?

Answer 4

In COPD, there is chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to obstructed airflow. The alveoli lose their elasticity, making it difficult to exhale air.

Question 4

How does COPD progress over time?

Answer 4

COPD typically progresses slowly.
The airway inflammation and lung damage worsen, leading to increasing breathlessness and decreased lung function.

Question 4

What is the role of mucus in COPD?

Answer 4

Excess mucus production is common in COPD. It can block airways and make breathing more difficult.

Question 4

What are the main categories of medications used to treat COPD?

Answer 4

Medications for COPD include bronchodilators (short-acting and long-acting) and anti-inflammatory drugs (corticosteroids).

Question 4

How do bronchodilators work in COPD treatment?

Answer 4

Bronchodilators relax the muscles around the airways, opening them up and improving airflow.

Question 4

When are corticosteroids prescribed for COPD?

Answer 4

Corticosteroids are used in COPD when there is significant inflammation and exacerbations. They help reduce airway inflammation.

Question 4

What is the role of oxygen therapy in COPD treatment?

Answer 4

Oxygen therapy is used in advanced COPD to improve oxygen levels in the blood, reducing breathlessness and improving overall health.

Question 4

What is pursed-lip breathing, and how does it benefit COPD patients?

Answer 4

Pursed-lip breathing involves inhaling slowly through the nose and exhaling through pursed lips. It helps improve oxygen exchange and reduce breathlessness.

Question 4

Are there dietary recommendations for COPD patients?

Answer 4

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and adequate hydration can help maintain overall health in COPD patients.

Question 4

Why is patient education important in COPD management?

Answer 4

Patient education helps individuals understand their condition, adhere to treatment plans, and make lifestyle changes to manage COPD effectively.

Question 4

What are pulmonary rehabilitation programs for COPD?

Answer 4

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs involve exercise, education, and support to help COPD patients improve their lung function and quality of life.

Question 5

How can smoking cessation help COPD patients?

Answer 5

Quitting smoking is the most effective way to slow down the progression of COPD and reduce symptoms.

Question 5

What should COPD patients know about avoiding exacerbations?

Answer 5

Patients should be educated about triggers (e.g., infections, pollution) and how to recognise early signs of exacerbations to seek timely treatment.

Question 6

What vaccinations are recommended for COPD patients?

Answer 6

COPD patients should receive annual flu vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccines to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

Question 6

What are advance directives, and why are they important for COPD patients?

Answer 6

Advance directives are legal documents that outline a patient’s preferences for medical care. They are crucial for COPD patients to ensure their wishes are respected in case of severe exacerbations.

Question 6

How can family and caregivers support COPD patients?

Answer 6

Family and caregivers can provide emotional support, help with daily tasks, and encourage adherence to treatment plans.

Question 6

How can COPD patients monitor their condition at home?

Answer 6

Monitoring tools such as peak flow meters and home spirometry can help patients track their lung function and symptoms.

Question 6

What is the role of support groups in COPD management?

Answer 6

Support groups offer COPD patients a platform to share experiences, seek advice, and build a support network for coping with the challenges of the condition.

Question 6

Can COPD be cured through patient education and management?

Answer 6

While COPD cannot be cured, patient education and effective management can significantly improve quality of life, reduce symptoms, and slow down disease progression.