COPD

Question 1

What is the typical history associated with mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer 1

• Chronic cough and sputum production
• Progressive dyspnea, especially with exertion
• History of smoking or exposure to respiratory irritants

Question 2

What are the key physical examination findings in mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer 2

• Prolonged expiratory phase
• Wheezing and decreased breath sounds
• Barrel chest and use of accessory muscles in advanced cases

Question 3

What investigations are necessary for diagnosing mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer 3

• Spirometry showing reduced FEV1/FVC ratio
• Chest X-ray to rule out other conditions
• Arterial blood gases (ABG) if hypoxemia or hypercapnia is suspected

Question 4

What are the non-pharmacological management strategies for mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer 4

• Smoking cessation and avoidance of respiratory irritants
• Pulmonary rehabilitation and regular exercise
• Vaccinations (influenza, pneumococcal) to prevent infections

Question 5

What are the pharmacological management options for mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer 5

• Short-acting bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol) for symptom relief
• Long-acting bronchodilators (e.g., tiotropium) for maintenance
• Inhaled corticosteroids for frequent exacerbations

Question 6

What are the red flags to look for in mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients?

Answer 6

• Severe dyspnea at rest or minimal exertion
• Signs of acute exacerbation: increased sputum, worsening dyspnea, fever
• Cyanosis or signs of right heart failure (cor pulmonale)

Question 7

When should a patient with mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) be referred to a specialist?

Answer 7

• Refractory symptoms despite optimal medical management
• Need for advanced therapies (e.g., oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation)
• Consideration for surgical options (e.g., lung volume reduction surgery, transplant)

Question 8

What is one key piece of pathophysiology related to mild to moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer 8

• Chronic inflammation leading to airflow limitation
• Destruction of alveolar walls and loss of elastic recoil
• Results in air trapping and hyperinflation of the lungs