Respiratory Flashcards
(33 cards)
What are first-line treatments for hay fever?
- Oral non-sedating antihistamines
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays
Sedating antihistamines have a limited role in managing hay fever.
What are common symptoms of asthma?
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Chest tightness
These symptoms may vary in intensity and frequency.
What class of drugs are used as preventers for asthma?
- Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS)
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists
- Mast cell stabilizers
ICS are the most effective for long-term control of asthma.
Fill in the blank: _______ are the most effective drugs available for long-term control of asthma.
[Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS)]
What are the adverse effects of long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids?
- Dryness and irritation
- Nosebleeds
- Headaches
- Smell and taste disturbances
Rarely, prolonged use can lead to more serious complications.
What is the goal of therapy for asthma management?
- Improvement of signs and symptoms
- Prevention of future attacks
- Maintenance of good lung function
- Improvement of quality of life
Effective asthma management requires a comprehensive approach.
True or False: Long-acting β2 agonists (LABA) are used as a first-line treatment for acute asthma attacks.
False
LABAs are used for long-term control and should be combined with inhaled corticosteroids.
What are the common triggers for asthma?
- Environmental factors (dust, pollen)
- Exercise
- Viral infections
Triggers can vary significantly among individuals.
What is the mechanism of action for leukotriene inhibitors?
Blockade of receptors for cysteinyl leukotrienes and inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines
Montelukast is an example and is used as a maintenance treatment.
What is the difference between short-acting and long-acting β2 agonists?
- Short-acting β2 agonists (SABA) provide rapid relief (e.g., Salbutamol)
- Long-acting β2 agonists (LABA) have a prolonged effect (> 12 hours)
LABAs are often used in conjunction with inhaled corticosteroids.
What is a common side effect of methylxanthines?
Nausea, vomiting, insomnia, tremors
Theophylline and aminophylline are examples of methylxanthines used in asthma treatment.
What are the recommended treatments for a 22-year-old with allergic rhinitis?
- Non-sedating antihistamines
- Corticosteroid nasal spray
Current management with Vicks Sinex and Sudafed should be stopped due to rebound symptoms.
What is the importance of an asthma action plan?
To provide a structured approach to manage asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations
It includes medication instructions and when to seek medical help.
What is Montelukast primarily used for?
Maintenance treatment for inadequately controlled asthma on ICS or exercise-induced asthma
Montelukast is particularly useful in children as a non-steroid preventor.
True or False: Montelukast is indicated for the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks.
False
What are some common side effects of Montelukast?
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
What type of therapies do Mabs or Biological therapies represent in asthma treatment?
Recombinant humanised monoclonal antibodies
What is the role of Omalizumab in asthma treatment?
Chelates free IgE antigens to prevent binding to mast cells
What is the onset time for Mabs in maintenance treatment of moderate/severe asthma?
Slow onset
Fill in the blank: Using a _______ with a Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) is always recommended.
spacer
What can lead to non-compliance with inhaler medications?
Improper inhaler technique
What device is encouraged for routine use with pMDI?
Spacer
What is the typical content of an Asthma Action Plan (AAP)?
- Information on treatment medications
- How to recognize flare-up symptoms
- Management strategies
- Upcoming appointments
What should be reviewed regularly in an Asthma Action Plan?
Symptoms or condition changes
