Exacerbation

Question 1

What are some causes of exacerbation?

Answer 1

• Viral (especially rhinovirus)
• Bacterial infections
• Environmental pollution

Question 2

Describe the process of exacerbation.

Answer 2

• Exposure to trigger (viral, bacterial or environmental) causes worsening airway inflammation
• Increased inflammation = increased airway oedema and mucus hypersecretion
  (Also have worsening: airway obstruction, dynamic hyperinflation, dyspnoea , cough)
• Increased work of breathing (WOB)

Question 3

What are the long-term effects of exacerbation?

Answer 3

• Structural lung damage (contributed by inflammatory cascade that occurs during acute exacerbation)
• Rapid decline in lung function
• Sustained reduction in health related quality of life (QOL)
• Increased risk of future exacerbation