Management of COPD Flashcards
What causes airflow obstruction in COPD
chronic bronchitis
What causes the hyperinflamation in COPD
emphysema
What causes the mucous build up and what does this rest in
Goblet cells - block the airways and reduce air flow
What is the main difference between COPD and asthma
COPD is irreversible
What is the affect of emphysema
alveoli walls loose elasticity (damaged)
trap air
What is the symptoms of COPD
Breathlessness - due to airway obstruction
Cough (recurrent chest infection)
What is the further problems caused by the affects and living with COPD
Loss of muscle mass -exercise capacity bad
Weight loss
cardiac disease - puts a strain on the heart
depression/anxiety
How is hyperinflation caused by COPD
the loss of elasticity causes the chest wall to recoil and push out, also the alveoli wall gas exchange cause the diaphragm to be pushed down
How is COPD diagnosed
Relevant clinical history
Examination - Clinical signs
Spirometry Tests - confirm
What is the signs and relevant history for COPD
– Chronic Cough – Exertional Breathlessness – Sputum production – Frequent “Winter” Bronchitis – Wheeze / chest tightness
What are signs of COPD upon examination
reduced chest exspansion
Listen to hear wheeze
Hyperinflated chest
Signs of respiratory failure
What are signs of respiratory failure
- Tachypneoa - rapid breathing
- Cyanosis - discoloured skin due to deoxygenation
- Use of accessory muscles
- Pursed lip breathing
- Peripheral Oedema - swelling in ankles
What do spirometry test allow
To confirm diagnosis
asses severity
What does spirometry measure
The FEV1/FVC
What value on the spirometry test predicts COPD to be extremely severe
<30%