COPD Flashcards
What is the main inflammatory mediator of COPD?
- Neutrophils
What are the clinical characteristics of COPD?
- Late onset
- Occupational/environmental exposure
- Smoking
- Cough, sputum plugs and SOB
Which is the most effective intervention for COPD?
Smoking cessation
What are 4 risk factors of COPD?
Smoking, dust, fumes, indoor and outdoor pollutants.
What are the two conditions COPD encompasses?
Chronic Bronchitis, Enphysema
How COPD used to be referred to at times?
COLD – Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease / COAD – Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease
What technique should be offered to all COPD patients with functional impairment?
Pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity, dyspnoea, QoL, and reduces hospitalisation.
Explain the pathophysiology of COPD
A progressive lung condition characterised by airway inflammation that is not fully reversible.
Onset is > 45.
Name 4 diagnosis –relevant history in COPD.
Smoking History, Occupational exposure, presence or absence of other respiratory illness, Comorbidities
What is the rationale for drug use in COPD?
Symptom relief
improvement of exercise tolerance and QoL
prevention or treatment of exacerbations and complications of COPD.
What is the rationale for recommending to check immunisation status: pneumococcal and annual influenza vaccines in COPD?
Influenza vaccination decreases the risk of exacerbations due to influenza strains; pneumococcal vaccination reduces the risk of exacerbations and of community-acquired pneumonia.
Name 4 clinical features differentiating COPD & Asthma.
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
What is the primary cause of COPD?
COPD is primarily caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most commonly from smoking.
What happens in the lungs during COPD?
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.
How does COPD progress over time?
COPD typically progresses slowly.
The airway inflammation and lung damage worsen, leading to increasing breathlessness and decreased lung function.
What is the role of mucus in COPD?
Excess mucus production is common in COPD. It can block airways and make breathing more difficult.
What are the main categories of medications used to treat COPD?
Medications for COPD include bronchodilators (short-acting and long-acting) and anti-inflammatory drugs (corticosteroids).
How do bronchodilators work in COPD treatment?
Bronchodilators relax the muscles around the airways, opening them up and improving airflow.
When are corticosteroids prescribed for COPD?
Corticosteroids are used in COPD when there is significant inflammation and exacerbations. They help reduce airway inflammation.
What is the role of oxygen therapy in COPD treatment?
Oxygen therapy is used in advanced COPD to improve oxygen levels in the blood, reducing breathlessness and improving overall health.
What is pursed-lip breathing, and how does it benefit COPD patients?
Pursed-lip breathing involves inhaling slowly through the nose and exhaling through pursed lips. It helps improve oxygen exchange and reduce breathlessness.
Are there dietary recommendations for COPD patients?
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and adequate hydration can help maintain overall health in COPD patients.
Why is patient education important in COPD management?
Patient education helps individuals understand their condition, adhere to treatment plans, and make lifestyle changes to manage COPD effectively.
What are pulmonary rehabilitation programs for COPD?
Pulmonary rehabilitation programs involve exercise, education, and support to help COPD patients improve their lung function and quality of life.
How can smoking cessation help COPD patients?
Quitting smoking is the most effective way to slow down the progression of COPD and reduce symptoms.
What should COPD patients know about avoiding exacerbations?
Patients should be educated about triggers (e.g., infections, pollution) and how to recognise early signs of exacerbations to seek timely treatment.
What vaccinations are recommended for COPD patients?
COPD patients should receive annual flu vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccines to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
What are advance directives, and why are they important for COPD patients?
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.
How can family and caregivers support COPD patients?
Family and caregivers can provide emotional support, help with daily tasks, and encourage adherence to treatment plans.
How can COPD patients monitor their condition at home?
Monitoring tools such as peak flow meters and home spirometry can help patients track their lung function and symptoms.
What is the role of support groups in COPD management?
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.
Can COPD be cured through patient education and management?
While COPD cannot be cured, patient education and effective management can significantly improve quality of life, reduce symptoms, and slow down disease progression.
