Lower Respiratory Diseases

Question 1

What disorders constitute COPD?

Answer 1

1) Asthma (persistent and present most of the time despite treatment)

2) Emphysema

3) Chronic bronchitis

Question 2

Explain broncial asthma…

Answer 2

1) Recurrent and reversible shortness of breath

2) Occurs when the airways of the lungs become narrow as a result of:
* Bronchospasms.
* Inflammation of the bronchial mucosa.
* Edema of the bronchial mucosa.
* Production of viscid mucus.
- Alveolar ducts/alveoli remain open, but airflow to them is obstructed.
- Symptoms: Wheezing; Difficulty breathing*

Question 3

What are the 4 catagories of asthma?
(But theres 5 listed)

Answer 3

Four categories:
1) Intrinsic (occurring in patients with no history of allergies).

2) Extrinsic (occurring in patients exposed to a known allergen).

3) Exercise induced.

4) Drug induced.

5) Status asthmaticus:
- Prolonged asthma attack that does not respond to typical drug therapy.
- May last several minutes to hours; Medical emergency.

Question 4

Explain Chronic bronchitis…

Answer 4

Continuous inflammation & low-grade inflammation of the bronchi and bronchioles.

Excessive secretion of mucous & certain pathologic changes in the bronchial structure.

Often occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to bronchial irritants.

Question 5

Explain Emphysema…

Answer 5

Air spaces enlarge as a result of the destruction of alveolar walls.

Caused by proteolytic enzymes released from leukotrienes in response to alveolar inflammation…The surface area where gas exchange takes place is reduced.

Effective respiration is impaired.

Question 6

What are the long term and quick relief drugs used to treat Asthma?

Answer 6

Long-term control (maintenance):
- Antileukotrienes
- cromolyn
- Inhaled steroids
- Long-acting β2-agonists

Quick relief (rescue):
- Short-acting inhaled β2-agonists.
- Intravenous systemic corticosteroids or Xanthine’s.