Respiratory Conditions Flashcards
What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses conditions like
emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and bronchiectasis
Gas exchange issues leading to a V/Q mismatch.
What are key 4 features of COPD?
Gas exchange issues,
mucus buildup,
hypoxic drive,
airway inflammation.
What causes gas exchange issues in COPD?
Reduced surface area.
increased diffusion distance hinder effective oxygen uptake.
What is V/Q mismatch?
The VQ ratio indicates the balance between air reaching the alveoli and blood circulating to them, with a normal ratio of 0.8 (4:5).
What are the 2 types of V/Q mismatch?
Types include low VQ (ventilation issues) and high VQ (perfusion issues).
What is bronchiectasis?
Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition marked by damaged and widened airways due to ongoing inflammation and infections.
What are the consequences of bronchiectasis?
Trapped mucus fosters bacterial growth, leading to frequent respiratory infections.
What characterizes chronic bronchitis?
Chronic bronchitis involves long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes primarily due to cigarette smoke.
What are the 2 main symptoms of chronic bronchitis?
Symptoms include persistent cough and airway constriction due to irritation.
What is a pulmonary embolism?
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks a pulmonary artery, often originating from deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
What 2 causes pulmonary embolisms?
Causes include DVT and atrial fibrillation leading to clot formation.
What characterizes emphysema?
Emphysema is characterized by the destruction of elastin in the airways, primarily due to cigarette smoke.
What is the mechanism of emphysema?
Neutrophils release elastase, breaking down elastin.
alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency exacerbates the condition.
What triggers asthma?
Asthma triggers can be intrinsic (e.g., cold air, exercise) or extrinsic (e.g., allergens).
What is the pathophysiology of asthma?
Antigen exposure leads to histamine release, causing edema and increased mucus production.
What are the consequences of untreated asthma?
Untreated asthma can lead to hypoxia, arrhythmias, and increased workload on the heart.
