Respiratory - Emphysema Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in Respiratory - Emphysema Deck (11)
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1
Q

What is emphysema?

A

Breakdown of alveolar walls and damage to bronchioles + alveolar capillaries - reducing the efficiency of gaseous exchange

2
Q

What are the symptoms of emphysema?

A

Shortness of breath
Frequent chest infections
Persistent cough
Cough up yellow sputum

3
Q

What are the causes of emphysema?

A

Smoking - longer a person smokes = increases risk
Genetics
Second hand smoke exposure

4
Q

How can emphysema be monitored?

A

Spirometry - nose clip, blow out - measures how fast and how much you can breathe out - check if meds are working
MRI/CT scan - allows doctors to see location of damage - images taken at hospital

5
Q

What are the benefits of spirometry?

A

Easy test - not too long
Support from GP
Results sent off = accurate

6
Q

What are the cons of spirometry?

A

Make time to see GP

Wait for results

7
Q

How can emphysema be treated?

A

Stop smoking
Pulmonary rehabilitation - programme of exercise and education
Long term oxygen therapy - up to 16 hours a day
Ambulatory oxygen therapy - portable oxygen when out
Medications - steroids (reduce inflammation), antibiotics (treat secondary infection),mucolytic agents (thin mucus)
Surgery - remove damaged part of lung (prevent further infection) or lung transplant

8
Q

What are the benefits of using inhalers?

A

Easy to use
Treat + help symptoms
Portable

9
Q

What are the cons of using inhalers?

A

Embarrassing in public
Children can use wrong dosage
Easy to forget when out
Not a cure

10
Q

What impacts does emphysema have?

A

Unable to access places/ cant go out if breathing is bad
May need home help - lose independence
Increased risk of infection

11
Q

What are the care/support needs for emphysema?

A

Wheelchair access - OT assessment - ramps, wheelchair
Change lifestyle - stop smoking, healthy diet, exercise
Support from GP