Asthma Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is bronchial asthma characterized by?
Increased reactivity of the trachea and bronchi to various stimuli
This hyperreactivity leads to widespread, reversible narrowing of the airways.
What results from the hyperreactivity in bronchial asthma?
Widespread, reversible narrowing of the airways, or bronchospasm
How does asthma affect exhalation?
Makes it difficult to exhale, trapping air in the lungs
What condition can lead to respiratory arrest in asthma patients?
A history of certain risk factors, not following medication regimens, or severe psychiatric disorders
What alternative term is sometimes used for asthma?
Reactive airway disease
What causes significant airway obstruction in asthma?
Edema, inflammation of the airways, and increased mucus production
How does asthma typically present?
In acute attacks of variable duration
What is status asthmaticus?
A severe, prolonged asthmatic attack that cannot be stopped with conventional treatment
True or False: A person with asthma usually calls 9-1-1 during a mild attack.
False
What indicates that a person with asthma is in status asthmaticus?
Feeling sick enough to call 9-1-1
What usually happens when patients begin wheezing?
Inhalers help for only a short time before symptoms return
What can cause the typical asthma attack that responds to treatment?
An underlying infection that continually triggers asthmalike symptoms
What will be observed in a patient in status asthmaticus during examination?
Struggling to move air through obstructed airways with prominent use of accessory muscles of breathing
What is bronchospasm caused by?
Contraction of the smooth muscle surrounding the larger bronchi
What can stimulate bronchospasm?
Allergens, irritants, or other stimuli
How does bronchospasm affect airflow?
Reduces peak expiratory flow and causes turbulent airflow
What effect does bronchial edema have on airflow?
Creates turbulent airflow and air trapping
What is the primary treatment for bronchospasm?
Nebulized bronchodilator medication
How does bronchial edema respond to treatment?
Much less responsive to aerosol bronchodilators; improves significantly only after corticosteroids
What is the primary approach to managing excessive mucus secretion in asthma?
Improve hydration
What medications may be used to manage thick mucus in asthma patients?
Mucolytics and expectorants
What should be determined during an asthma attack?
The trigger for the attack
What may a patient whose wheezing clears but whose peak flow does not improve need?
Corticosteroids
What additional support may a dehydrated asthma patient need?
IV fluids
