Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following is a component of optimal asthma management?
Which of the following is a component of optimal asthma management?
What should be done to manage environmental factors that contribute to asthma severity?
What should be done to manage environmental factors that contribute to asthma severity?
Which of the following medications is NOT classified as a long-term-control medication for asthma?
Which of the following medications is NOT classified as a long-term-control medication for asthma?
What is involved in the management of asthma exacerbations?
What is involved in the management of asthma exacerbations?
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Which of the following co-morbid conditions should be treated to optimize asthma management?
Which of the following co-morbid conditions should be treated to optimize asthma management?
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What is the primary characteristic of bronchial asthma?
What is the primary characteristic of bronchial asthma?
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Which factors are common risk factors for persistent asthma?
Which factors are common risk factors for persistent asthma?
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Which of the following is considered a trigger for asthma?
Which of the following is considered a trigger for asthma?
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What symptom would older children and adults with asthma typically present?
What symptom would older children and adults with asthma typically present?
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What is the recommended frequency for asthma check-ups once good control is achieved?
What is the recommended frequency for asthma check-ups once good control is achieved?
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Which of the following describes the typical symptoms of asthma in younger children?
Which of the following describes the typical symptoms of asthma in younger children?
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Which type of asthma is primarily triggered by viral infections during early childhood?
Which type of asthma is primarily triggered by viral infections during early childhood?
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What component is NOT included in the optimal management of asthma?
What component is NOT included in the optimal management of asthma?
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Study Notes
Asthma
- Asthma is a condition where the tracheo-bronchial smooth muscles are hyper-responsive to various stimuli, leading to airway narrowing.
- The narrowing often comes with increased secretions and edema in the tracheo-bronchial tree.
- Asthma symptoms like dyspnea and wheezing are prevalent.
- There are two types of childhood asthma: recurrent wheezing mostly triggered by respiratory tract infections and chronic asthma linked to allergies, persisting into adulthood.
- Risk factors for persistent asthma include family history, allergy, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and food allergy.
- Exposure to severe lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and environmental tobacco smoke can also be risk factors.
Asthma Triggers
- Common triggers include viral respiratory tract infections, aeroallergens like animal dander, dust mites, cockroaches, pollens, and air pollutants.
- Environmental tobacco smoke, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, dust, and wood or coal burning smoke also contribute to asthma trigger.
- Exercise, crying, laughter, and hyperventilation are additional triggers.
Co-morbid Conditions
- Rhinitis, sinusitis, and gastroesophageal reflux are co-morbid conditions that can exist with asthma.
Clinical Features
- Intermittent dry coughing and expiratory wheezing are common features.
- Older children and adults may experience shortness of breath and chest tightness.
- Younger children might experience intermittent "chest pain."
- Night and early morning exacerbations of respiratory symptoms are frequent.
- Daytime symptoms often link with physical activities or play.
Diagnosis
- Peak expiratory flow monitoring devices are used to measure airflow.
- Chest radiographs often appear normal, but subtle hyperinflation (flattening of the diaphragms) and peribronchial thickening may be observed.
Four Components of Optimal Asthma Management
- Regular Assessment and Monitoring: Asthma checkups are crucial, every 2-4 weeks until control is achieved and 2-4 times per year to maintain good control. Lung function monitoring is essential.
- Control Factors Contributing to Asthma Severity: Problematic environmental exposures should be eliminated or reduced. Co-morbid conditions like rhinitis, sinusitis, and gastroesophageal reflux must be treated.
- Asthma Pharmacotherapy: Long-term control medications and quick-relief medications are used. Beta agonists, Ipratropium, and Inhaled Corticosteroids play a significant role. Step-up, step-down approaches are used to manage asthma.
- Patient Education: A two-part care plan is provided. Daily management strategies and action plans for asthma exacerbations are essential for patients.
Eliminating or Reducing Problematic Environmental Exposures
- Eliminating or reducing environmental tobacco smoke exposure is critical.
- Eliminating pets like cats, dogs, rodents, and birds can also be beneficial.
- Minimizing dust mites and dust is essential.
Treating Co-morbid Conditions
- Rhinitis, sinusitis, and gastroesophageal reflux require treatment.
Annual Influenza Vaccination
- Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for asthma patients.
Classification of Asthma Severity
- Asthma severity is classified based on the frequency of daytime and nighttime symptoms.
- Severe Persistent Asthma: Symptoms occur daily, with frequent nighttime symptoms, and FEV1 or PEF percentages fall below 60.
- Moderate Persistent Asthma: Symptoms occur daily, with nighttime symptoms more than once a week but less than twice a month. FEV1 or PEF percentages range from 60-80.
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Description
This quiz provides an insightful overview of asthma, addressing its symptoms, types, and common risk factors. Additionally, it delves into the various triggers that can exacerbate asthma conditions, particularly in children. Learn about asthma management and prevention strategies through this knowledge check.
