Respiratory Flashcards
What is asthma?
Respiratory disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of dyspnoea, cough and wheeze caused by reversible airway obstruction
Describe the aetiology of asthma?
Children
occupational
HRT
Drug related
What are the common symptoms of asthma?
intermittent dyspnoea
wheeze
cough - often nocturnal
sputum
What are the precipitants of asthma?
cold air exercise emotion allergence infection smoking and drugs (NSAIDs)
When is asthma worst?
morning
what are the other symptoms of asthma?
reduced exercise tolerance
disturbed sleep
acid reflux
other atopic diseases: eczema, hay fever, allergy or FHx
What are the signs of asthma?
tachypnoea audible wheeze hyper inflated chest hyperresonant percussion note decreased air entry widespread, polyphonic wheeze
Describe the three factors that contribute to the pathophysiology of asthma
bronchial muscle contraction - triggered by a variety of stimuli
mucosal swelling/inflammation - caused by mast cell and basophil degranulation resulting in release of inflammatory mediators
Increased mucus production
What are the associated risks of asthma?
Acid reflux
Polyarteritis nodosa
Churg-Strauss syndrome
What investigations are done for asthma?
PEFR monitoring
Spirometry
CXR
Skin prick test
Histamine or methacholine challenge
Aspergillus serology
What is step 1 in the tx of asthma?
SABA PRN
What is step 2 in the tx of asthma?
Add ICS
What is step 3 in the tx of asthma?
SABA + ICS + LTRA
What is step 4 in the tx of asthma?
SABA + ICS + LTRA + LABA
What is step 5 in the tx of asthma?
Switch ICS/LABA for MART
What is step 6 in the tx of asthma?
Increase MART
Add theophylline
Refer to specialist