COPD Flashcards
What three conditions make up COPD?
Bronchitis, emphysema and chronic asthma
What does COPD stand for?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Define COPD
Airflow obstruction that is progressive in severity and not fully reversible but doesn’t make marled changes over several months
What is systemic inflammation and it’s causes? (7 causes)
Not just the lungs are affected by COPD, also causes weight loss, cancer, skeletal muscle dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, depression and fatigue
How is it diagnosed?
Spirometry
What is the general pathology cycle of COPD? (6 stages)
- Excess mucus produced
- Mucus is thicker and stickier
- Cilia are unable to beat (smoking paralyses them)
- Dust and bacteria are trapped in the airways
- Mucus builds creating perfect environment for bacteria
- Infection can develop
What is the pathology of bronchitis?
It’s a chronic disease where bronchi become inflamed causing mucus to be produced making airways narrowed
What are the symptoms of bronchitis?
Difficulty clearing sputum
Wheezing especially after coughing
Feeling unwell, tired and unable to cough
Describe the pathology of emphysema
Inflammation of the alveoli causing them to lose their elasticity and ability to fill and contract properly
What happens to gaseous exchange when the alveoli rupture in emphysema patients?
It is decreased to the reduced surface area
Define asthma
An episodic increase in airway obstruction caused by varying stimuli but is reversible
What stimulates asthma?
Allergies, dust, pollen, exercise
What three things are used to reverse asthma attacks?
Inhalers, antibiotics and steroids
State three symptoms of asthma
Wheezing, breathlessness and tightness
What causes chronic asthma and therefore COPD?
Ineffective treatment of asthma causing inflammation and scarring
