Respiratory System: Diseases Flashcards
COPD
Describe what COPD is
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of chronic lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that cause airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties.
Explain the main causes of COPD
Smoking (most common cause).
Long-term exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust.
Genetic predisposition (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency).
What are the key symptoms of COPD?
Persistent cough (often with phlegm).
Breathlessness during activity or at rest in severe cases.
Frequent respiratory infections.
Wheezing and tightness in the chest.
Describe how COPD affects the alveoli
Damage to alveoli reduces their elasticity, impairing gas exchange.
Walls between alveoli can break down (emphysema), reducing the surface area for oxygen uptake.
Explain the role of the respiratory system in gas exchange
The respiratory system delivers oxygen to the bloodstream and removes carbon dioxide through:
Inhalation: Oxygen enters alveoli.
Diffusion: Oxygen passes from alveoli into capillaries, while carbon dioxide moves from blood to alveoli.
Exhalation: Carbon dioxide is expelled.
How does smoking contribute to the development of COPD?
Smoking irritates and inflames airways, causing mucus overproduction.
Damages cilia, impairing mucus clearance.
Leads to the destruction of alveoli, reducing lung capacity.
What are the main differences between Chronic bronchitis and emphysema in COPD?
Chronic bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchi leads to mucus overproduction and narrowed airways.
Emphysema: Destruction of alveolar walls reduces surface area for gas exchange.
Describe how COPD is diagnosed
Spirometry: Measures lung function by assessing forced expiratory volume (FEV1).
Imaging: Chest X-rays or CT scans show lung damage.
Arterial blood gas tests assess oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
Explain why oxygen therapy helps manage COPD
Oxygen therapy increases oxygen levels in the blood, reducing breathlessness and improving tissue oxygenation, especially during severe cases.
what lifestyle changes are recommended for managing COPD?
Quit smoking.
Regular, gentle exercise to improve lung function.
Balanced diet to maintain healthy weight.
Avoiding triggers like pollution and cold air.
Describe the impact of COPD on the respiratory system’s function
Narrowed airways reduce airflow.
Alveolar damage limits oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide removal.
Chronic inflammation increases resistance to airflow, causing breathlessness.
Explain how COPD exacerbations occurs
Exacerbations are sudden worsening of symptoms triggered by respiratory infections, pollution, or irritants, leading to severe breathlessness and increased mucus production.
What are the key components of a COPD treatment plan?
Lifestyle changes (e.g., smoking cessation, exercise).
Pharmacological treatments (e.g., bronchodilators, corticosteroids).
Pulmonary rehabilitation.
Oxygen therapy (if severe).
Management of exacerbations.
What types of medications are used to manage COPD?
Bronchodilators: Open airways (e.g., salbutamol, tiotropium).
Corticosteroids: Reduce airway inflammation (e.g., inhaled fluticasone).
Combination inhalers: Include both bronchodilators and steroids.
Antibiotics: Treat respiratory infections during exacerbations.
What is pulonary rehabilitation, and why is it important in COPD management?
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program combining exercise, education, and support to:
Improve lung function and exercise tolerance.
Reduce breathlessness.
Enhance quality of life.
What is the role of a multidisciplinary team in COPD management?
GP/Respiratory specialist: Diagnosis and treatment oversight.
Physiotherapist: Guides pulmonary rehabilitation.
Dietitian: Advises on nutrition to support respiratory health.
Nurse/Smoking cessation advisor: Provides smoking cessation support and medication education.
