LO2 Malfunctions Flashcards
What is asthma?
Inflammation of the bronchi, carries air in and out the lungs causing the bronchi to be more sensitive.
There are triggers like pollen and pet hair.
Causes of asthma?
-may be genetic as it often runs in families
-allergies are at higher risk
-exposure to tobacco as a child.
Symptoms and effects of asthma?
-Reoccurring episodes of breathlessness.
-tightness of the chest
-asthma attacks episodes of wheezing that require the use of an inhaler to open the airways.
Emphysema what is it?
Airways of the lungs become inflamed and narrowed as the air sacs (alveoli) get permanently damaged it becomes difficult to breathe.
Causes of emphysema?
-smoking
-fumes/ dust and chemical exposure at work
-in rare cases genetic
Symptoms and effects of emphysema?
-Frequent chest infections
-persistent cough that doesn’t seem to go away
-shortness of breath
What is cystic fibrosis?
Defect gene at birth. Protein is produced by a gene which causes mucus secreting cells to make a sticky type of mucus which builds up in the digestive system and lungs.
Causes of cystic fibrosis?
Both parents must have a copy of the faulty gene for the child to have cystic fibrosis
Symptoms and effects of cystic fibrosis?
-Lung problems reoccurring chest infections coughing and wheezing
-digestive problems- diarrhoea, diabetes and malnutrition because the body struggles to digest and absorb nutrients which causes jaundice
Treatment of respiratory malfunctions
-surgery to remove damaged section of lung or lung transplant.
-medication antibiotics to treat infections
-steroids to relieve symptoms
-anti inflammatory medication reduces swelling and inflammation
-inhalers
Lifestyle changes for respiratory malfunctions
need to:
-quit smoking
- having to move around with an oxygen cylinder.
-diet well balanced to promote maintenance of healthy weight
-not leave the house due to oxygen tank.
-frequent hospital visits
