17 Questions
What is a common allergen that can trigger asthma symptoms?
Dust mites
Which symptom is more likely to occur in severe asthma cases?
Chest retractions
What is the purpose of a spirometry test in diagnosing asthma?
To measure lung capacity and airflow
Which of the following is NOT a physical factor that can trigger asthma symptoms?
Tobacco smoke
What is the purpose of a methacholine challenge test?
To test for airway constriction
Which of the following is a common symptom of asthma?
Wheezing or coughing
What is the function of the soft palate during certain activities?
It closes the opening between the nasopharynx and oropharynx
What is the primary function of the mouth in relation to breathing?
It is an auxiliary respiratory passage
What is the location of the pharyngeal tonsils in relation to the soft palate?
Posterior and superior to the soft palate
What is the significance of the uvula in terms of the pharyngeal reflex?
It controls the gag and swallowing reflex
What is a disadvantage of the mouth as an airway passage?
It has a low surface area to volume ratio
What is the function of the glossopalatine arch?
It is not mentioned in the text
In which zone of the lung is the alveolar pressure greater than pulmonary capillary perfusing pressure?
Zone 1
What is the relationship between ventilation and perfusion in a healthy individual?
V = Q
What is the effect of decreasing ventilation with unchanged perfusion on the V/Q ratio?
The V/Q ratio decreases
In which zone of the lung is the pulmonary capillary perfusing pressure greater than the alveolar pressure?
Zone 3
What is the impact of abnormalities that lower ventilation with perfusion unchanged on the V/Q ratio?
The V/Q ratio decreases
Study Notes
Triggers
-
Allergens:
- Dust mites
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Cockroach waste
-
Irritants:
- Tobacco smoke
- Air pollution
- Chemicals in the workplace
- Strong fragrances
- Respiratory infections
-
Physical factors:
- Exercise (especially in cold air)
- Emotional stress
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers, aspirin)
Symptoms
-
Common symptoms:
- Wheezing or coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or pain
- Quick shallow breathing
- Feeling tired or fatigued
-
Severe symptoms:
- Severe wheezing or coughing
- Pale or blue-tinged skin
- Confusion or disorientation
- Rapid heartbeat
- Chest retractions (in children)
Diagnosis
-
Medical history and physical exam:
- Review of symptoms and medical history
- Listening to lungs with a stethoscope
- Checking for signs of allergies or other conditions
-
Lung function tests:
- Spirometry: measures lung capacity and airflow
- Peak flow meter: measures airflow
- Methacholine challenge: tests for airway constriction
-
Allergy tests:
- Skin prick test: checks for allergic reactions
- Blood tests: measures IgE antibody levels
-
Imaging tests:
- Chest X-ray: rules out other conditions
- CT scan: checks for lung damage or other conditions
Learn about the common allergens, irritants and physical factors that trigger asthma symptoms. Identify the common and severe symptoms of asthma. Understand the diagnosis process, including medical history, lung function tests, allergy tests, and imaging tests.
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