COPD Flashcards
What is COPD?
A respiratory condition characterized by progressive, irreversible airflow limitation, often associated with chronic inflammation in the airways.
What are the main subtypes of COPD?
Chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Describe chronic bronchitis.
Inflammation of bronchial tubes, excessive mucus production, and a chronic productive cough for at least 3 months in 2 consecutive years.
What characterizes emphysema?
Permanent enlargement of air spaces distal to terminal bronchioles with destruction of their walls, without obvious fibrosis.
List primary risk factors for COPD.
Tobacco smoke, indoor and outdoor air pollution, occupational exposures, genetic factors, age, and lung development issues.
How does cigarette smoke contribute to COPD?
It triggers lung inflammation, damages lung tissue, and impairs cilia, weakening the lungs’ defenses against infections.
What is the main pathophysiological change in COPD?
Chronic inflammation leading to airway obstruction, loss of lung elasticity, air trapping, and impaired gas exchange.
What are ‘Blue Bloaters’?
A term for patients with chronic bronchitis, characterized by cyanosis, fluid retention, and poor ventilation.
What are ‘Pink Puffers’?
A term for patients with emphysema who maintain oxygenation through hyperventilation, often appearing thin.
What is the role of spirometry in COPD diagnosis?
It measures lung function to assess airflow limitation; a FEV1/FVC ratio less than 70% suggests obstructive lung disease.
How is stable COPD managed?
Smoking cessation, exercise, pulmonary rehabilitation, and use of bronchodilators (SABA, LABA, LAMA), inhaled corticosteroids, and vaccines.
Describe the pharmacological management of severe COPD.
Use of LAMA, LABA, ICS, and possible triple therapy; consider oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehab.
What are common triggers of acute exacerbations of COPD?
Viral and bacterial respiratory infections, smoking, and exposure to air pollution.
How are acute exacerbations of COPD managed?
Nebulized bronchodilators, systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics if needed, oxygen therapy, and supportive care.
What are possible complications of COPD?
Respiratory infections, cor pulmonale, lung cancer, osteoporosis, depression, and sleep disturbances.
