WEEK 6 COPD Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is COPD?
COPD is an obstructive airway disease characterized by airflow obstruction that is progressive, not fully reversible, and does not change markedly over several months.
COPD is an umbrella term for several conditions, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic asthma.
What are the key components of COPD management?
Management is a combination of:
* Education
* Medication
* Exercise
Early diagnosis is key to effective management.
What is the impact of smoking cessation on COPD?
Halt or slow disease progression.
Smoking cessation is crucial as it significantly reduces the risk factors associated with COPD.
What is emphysema?
A condition where the alveoli of the lungs become inflamed and lose their natural elasticity, leading to over-expansion and difficulty in breathing.
This condition reduces the surface area for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
What are the common symptoms of asthma?
Symptoms include:
* Breathlessness
* Wheeze
* Tightness in the chest
Asthma is characterized by reversible airway obstruction.
What is the primary cause of COPD?
Cigarette smoking accounts for 90% of cases, along with other factors such as occupational exposure and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
Significant smoking history is considered to be 20 pack years or more.
What are the clinical signs of COPD?
Clinical signs include:
* Breathlessness on exertion
* Cough
* Increased sputum
* Risk factors
* Rule out other causes
Diagnosis often requires detailed patient history and spirometry.
What is the purpose of spirometry in COPD diagnosis?
Spirometry is used to:
* Diagnose
* Categorize severity
* Monitor progression
It is a key tool in assessing lung function.
How is COPD classified based on spirometry results?
COPD can be classified as:
* Early disease
* Moderate disease
* Severe disease
Each stage has specific symptoms and clinical examination findings.
Fill in the blank: The inflammation in bronchitis causes more mucus to be produced, which _______.
narrows the airway and makes breathing more difficult.
What is the role of pulmonary rehabilitation in COPD management?
Pulmonary rehabilitation includes:
* Exercise
* Education
* Self-management
* Diet
* Lifestyle modifications
These components help reduce admissions and aid recovery time post exacerbation.
True or False: Asthma is always a chronic condition.
False
Asthma is often reversible, but it can become chronic with fixed airway damage.
What are the features of normal airway clearance?
Normal airway clearance involves:
* Cells that produce mucus
* Cilia that beat continuously
* Mucus trapping dust and bacteria
This mechanism helps move mucus to the throat for swallowing or coughing.
What happens to the cilia in the presence of smoking?
Smoking paralyzes the cilia, preventing them from beating effectively.
This leads to mucus build-up and increased risk of infections.
What are the common symptoms of severe COPD?
Severe symptoms include:
* Cyanosis
* Weight loss
* Raised JVP
* Peripheral oedema
These symptoms indicate advanced disease progression.
What is a significant risk factor for developing COPD?
A significant smoking history of 20 pack years or more.
Occupational exposures, such as coal mining, also contribute.
Fill in the blank: In COPD and bronchiectasis, excess mucus is produced, and the mucus is _______.
thicker and stickier.
