Respiratory History

Question 1

Key resp symptoms?

Answer 1

Dyspnoea – Only on exertion or at rest? / Determine severity
Cough – Dry vs productive / Sputum (volume, colour, consistency)
Wheeze – Time of day / Triggers
Haemoptysis – Volume
Chest pain – Site / Radiation / Character
Systemic symptoms – Fever / Night sweats / Weight loss

Question 2

What medications can have respiratory side-effects?

Answer 2

Beta-Blockers / NSAIDS – bronchoconstriction
ACE inhibitors – dry cough
Cytotoxic agents – interstitial lung disease
Oestrogen – e.g. contraceptive pill / HRT – increased risk of PE
Amiodarone / Methotrexate – pleural effusions / interstitial lung disease