Sinusitis and Respiratory Conditions

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the sinuses in the head?

To aid in the digestion of food

To regulate body temperature

To protect the brain from injury

To lighten the weight of the head and give resonance to the voice (correct)

What is the result of oxygen absorption by the blood vessels in the nasal membrane during inflammation?

A painful, negative pressure in the sinuses (correct)

A reduction in sinus congestion

A decrease in blood pressure

An increase in body temperature

What is the response of the membranes to the negative pressure in the sinuses?

They release a hormone to reduce inflammation

They become thinner to facilitate drainage

They constrict to reduce blood flow

They release a transudate, which fills the sinus cavity (correct)

What is the characteristic symptom of sinusitis?

Sinus headache Signup and view all the answers

Where is the sinus cavity located?

Above the eyes and behind and lateral to the nose Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a cause of sinusitis?

Nutritional deficiency Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic feature of all sinusitis and sinus headache?

Inflammation of the mucous membranes Signup and view all the answers

What is the common location of pain in a Maxillary Sinus Headache?

Under the eyes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of about 25% of maxillary viral/bacterial sinusitis?

Dental work, dental infection, or dental abscess Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the condition characterized by the onset of itchy eyes, roof of mouth, pharynx and eyes?

Allergic rhinitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the condition that can occur if a bacterial or viral infection is left untreated?

Osteomyelitis Signup and view all the answers

What is the common feature of a bacterial or viral infection?

Thick, sticky, and green or yellow mucous Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the most common culprit of allergic sinusitis/ rhinitis?

Hay Fever Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary symptom of sinusitis?

Headache Signup and view all the answers

What is the common structure that can cause a structural obstruction?

Deviated septum Signup and view all the answers

What is a common predisposing factor for fungal infections in the sinuses?

HIV/AIDS Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of rebound sinus headache?

Overuse of nasal sprays containing decongestants and anti-inflammatory medication Signup and view all the answers

What should be assessed during a case history for sinusitis?

General health, onset, and previous occurrences Signup and view all the answers

What may indicate possible conjunctivitis during an observation?

Watery eyes Signup and view all the answers

What should be palpated initially during the palpation assessment?

The cervical musculature for excessive tone and tenderness Signup and view all the answers

What is a short-term aim of treatment for sinusitis?

Reduce SNS with soothing massage techniques Signup and view all the answers

What may be a long-term aim of treatment for sinusitis?

Address postural imbalances and dysfunction Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked during the testing assessment?

The AF ROM of the C-spine and TMJ Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible complication of chronic use of nasal sprays?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should be referred for immediate medical treatment during assessment?

Immune-suppressed fungal infections Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended treatment for chronic, recurrent sinusitis?

Broad-spectrum antibiotics for 4-6 weeks Signup and view all the answers

Why is massage contraindicated for clients with fever?

It may exacerbate the infection Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of incorporating facial steams into the treatment?

It helps to unclog mucous Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended frequency of treatment during a sinusitis flare-up?

2-3 times/week for 1⁄2 hour Signup and view all the answers

Why should the therapist avoid placing the client in a face cradle if the sinuses are swollen and tender?

It may put pressure on the sinuses Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of teaching full diaphragmatic breathing to clients with sinusitis?

It helps to improve respiratory function Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of incorporating cold compresses over the cheeks, eyes, and forehead?

To reduce inflammation Signup and view all the answers

What essential oil should be avoided in facial steams for clients with Hay Fever or Ragweed allergies?

Chamomile Signup and view all the answers

Why should the therapist work within the client's pain tolerance, especially over the sinuses?

To avoid causing discomfort to the client Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended self-care practice for clients with sinusitis?

Humidifying their environment Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of surgery in treating sinusitis?

To improve ventilation and drainage Signup and view all the answers

What medication may be used to treat allergic sinusitis/rhinitis?

Oral antihistamines combined with vasoconstrictors Signup and view all the answers

What may be administered to hypertensive patients taking oral antihistamines and vasoconstrictors?

Regular monitoring of blood pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of Cromolyn sodium?

It blocks the allergen response by acting on mast cells Signup and view all the answers

When is systemic, oral corticosteroids such as Prednisone typically used?

When antihistamine therapy proves ineffective Signup and view all the answers

How is immunosuppressed patients' fungal infections of the sinuses typically treated?

Aggressively with IV administered medication and possible surgery Signup and view all the answers

What is Acute Bronchitis?

A self-limited inflammation of the tracheobronchial tree with eventual healing and return to function Signup and view all the answers

What is Chronic Bronchitis classified as?

A Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of irritation and inflammation of the bronchial walls in Bronchitis?

Obstruction and obliteration of the small airways Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of Mucopurulent Bronchitis?

Thick, yellowish sputum due to bacterial infection Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the diaphragm in anatomy related to respiratory conditions?

Expansion and contraction of the chest cavity Signup and view all the answers

What muscles are involved in respiratory anatomy?

Pectoralis Major and minor, SCM, Scalenes, Thoracic erectors, and Posterior cervical muscles Signup and view all the answers

What is usually a preceding symptom of bronchitis?

Cold or flu Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of chronic bronchitis?

Cough, sputum, and wheeze Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of bronchitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of assessing a client with bronchitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of vocal fremitus?

To identify congested lobes Signup and view all the answers

What may indicate pneumonia?

Persistent fever Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist do during percussion tests?

Perform quick taps using their fingertips Signup and view all the answers

What may be noticed in clients with chronic bronchitis?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

What should the therapist assess during a case history for bronchitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of testing for bronchitis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of the treatment in terms of facilitating removal of secretions?

To loosen and clear mucus from the tracheobronchial tree Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position for treating the right middle lobe?

Left side-lying with the client well pillowed Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using inhalations of certain essential oils in the treatment?

They aid in clearing mucus and have antibacterial properties Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of teaching the client how to perform DDB?

To help the client clear their airway Signup and view all the answers

What is a contraindication for this treatment?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the assisted forced expiration/cough technique?

To remove peripheral secretions in the lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended frequency of treatment?

1 time a week for 2 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of joint play and thoracic mobilizations in the treatment?

To restore or maintain thoracic mobility Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using tapotement in the treatment?

It helps to loosen and clear mucus from the tracheobronchial tree Signup and view all the answers

Why should the therapist arrange a hand signal with the client?

So the client can cough or require a break during tapotement Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

To provide for oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of long-term exposure to irritants such as smoking and pollution in the lungs?

The alveoli merge forming large sacs called bullae Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protein in the lungs?

To protect the alveolar walls from damage Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic symptom of emphysema?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the age range of most emphysema patients?

Between 65 and 75 years old Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of chronic irritation of the bronchioles?

The production of excess mucus Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of emphysema patients diagnosed before age 50?

A lack of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protein Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the merging of alveoli to form large sacs?

Bullae Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of their energy does a healthy person expend on breathing?

5% Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of a person having to work harder for gas exchange due to emphysema?

They develop hypoxia Signup and view all the answers

What is a common complication of emphysema?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a person with emphysema?

They have a barrel chest Signup and view all the answers

What is the aim of treatment in the early stage of emphysema?

To remove irritating stimuli Signup and view all the answers

What is a technique that may be taught to clients with emphysema?

Pursed lip breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration for massage therapy in clients with emphysema?

Avoiding prone and supine positions Signup and view all the answers

What is the prognosis for emphysema?

It is an irreversible disease Signup and view all the answers

What is a medical treatment for emphysema?

Bronchodilators and diuretics Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible complication of emphysema?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a common risk factor for developing asthma?

Eczema Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the diaphragm during an asthma attack?

It is unable to relax, causing air to remain in the lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic symptom of asthma?

Hypertonicity of accessory muscles of respiration Signup and view all the answers

What is the type of hypersensitivity reaction that occurs in asthma?

Type 1 hypersensitivity reaction Signup and view all the answers

What is a common trigger for asthma attacks?

Emotional upset Signup and view all the answers

What is a complication that can occur if asthma is left untreated?

Chronic bronchitis Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible trigger for asthma?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a co-morbid condition that is often associated with asthma?

GERD Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic breathing pattern in people with asthma?

Upper chest breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is a goal of massage therapy for asthma?

Decrease tone of accessory muscles of respiration Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided during hydrotherapy for asthma?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of Cardiac Asthma?

Congestive cardiac failure resulting in excess fluid in the lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended frequency for massage therapy for asthma?

Treat 1 hour/week for posture and respiratory function Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of incorporating steams into the treatment for asthma?

Can help to open airways and relax the body Signup and view all the answers

What is a type of exercise recommended for asthma?

Encouraged FDB (Full Diaphragmatic Breathing) Signup and view all the answers

What is a complication associated with asthma?

More severe cardiopulmonary complications Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary organ affected by Cystic Fibrosis?

Lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is the average life expectancy for Cystic Fibrosis patients with modern day management?

37 years Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of chronic infection/inflammation in the bronchiole walls?

Bronchiectasis Signup and view all the answers

What is a common respiratory symptom of Cystic Fibrosis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of male Cystic Fibrosis patients are infertile?

98% Signup and view all the answers

What is a digestive symptom of Cystic Fibrosis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

When was Cystic Fibrosis first officially diagnosed and labeled?

1938 Signup and view all the answers

What is a common complication of Cystic Fibrosis?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of cystic fibrosis?

A mutation of the ‘Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator’ (CFTR) gene Signup and view all the answers

How do people typically inherit cystic fibrosis?

From both parents Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of sweat testing in diagnosing cystic fibrosis?

To measure chloride levels in sweat Signup and view all the answers

Why is genetic testing important for adults who are carriers of cystic fibrosis?

To determine if they are carriers of the disease Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of treating cystic fibrosis in massage therapy?

To manage respiratory symptoms Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of techniques used in massage therapy for cystic fibrosis?

Mucus expulsion and respiratory drainage Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of addressing digestive issues in clients with cystic fibrosis?

It can reduce the risk of digestive complications Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of incorporating preventive care in massage therapy for cystic fibrosis?

It can reduce the risk of complications Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sinusitis

The sinuses are hollow areas located above the eyes and behind and lateral to the nose, serving to lighten the weight of the head, give resonance to the voice, and provide additional surface area for the sticky, mucous membrane lining to trap pathogens during inhalation.

Anatomy

Frontal, Ethmoidal, Sphenoidal, and Maxillary Sinuses
Frontal and Occipital bones, Zygomatic Arch, Supra and Infra orbital margins, Mandible and Temporomandibular joint, Sphenoid bone, Cervical spine (particularly the Atlanto-occipital and Atlanto-axial joints)
Frontalis and Occipitalis, Sub-occipitals, Upper Trapezius, Levator Scapula, Splenius Capitus, Splenius Cervicis, Sternocleidomastoid, Scalenes, and Masseter muscles

Signs and Symptoms

Guarded head and neck movement
Pained facial expression
FEVER
Malaise, muscle/joint ache
Insomnia
Loss of Appetite (anorexia)
Swelling, redness around eyes and cheeks
Watery eyes
Itchy eyes, nose, throat
Cough
Mucous: thin & watery or thick & sticky
Colour of mucous: clear, yellow, green
Headache (especially in the morning)
Muscle stiffness of head and neck
Pain upon forward flexion
Irritability
Inability to concentrate
Toothache
Conjunctivitis
Signs of Meningitis (rapid onset stiff neck and severe headache)

Types of Sinusitis

Acute or chronic, recurrent inflammation of the mucous membranes in the para-nasal sinuses
Caused by:
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Allergic reaction/rhinitis
- Structural obstruction
- Fungal infection
- Intolerance to medicine

Sinus Headache

A painful headache that often accompanies a sinusitis
Location and quality defined by the location of maximum sinus irritation
Types:
- Frontal Sinus Headache: located in the frontal area above the eyes
- Ethmoidal Sinus Headache: causes both a frontal headache that is described as "splitting" and pain behind the eyes
- Sphenoidal Sinus Headache: less well localized, causing pain in both the frontal and occipital area
- Maxillary Sinus Headache: causes pain in the maxillary area under the eyes, a frontal headache, and often toothache

Causes

Viral/Bacterial:
- May require medical treatment
- Usually occurs when the immune defenses are low
- Mucous is often thick, sticky, and green or yellow in colour
- Client often has accompanying symptoms of malaise, fever, and chills
- If left untreated, the infection can infiltrate the facial bones causing osteomyelitis and permanent bone damage or can infect the central nervous system causing Meningitis
Allergic Sinusitis/Rhinitis:
- Related to allergic reactions and is seasonal in nature
- Hay Fever is the most common culprit along with wind-borne pollens
- Characterized by the onset of itchy eyes, roof of mouth, pharynx, and eyes followed or accompanied by nasal congestion, sneezing, clear watery nasal discharge, watery eyes, frontal headache, and possible conjunctivitis
Structural Obstruction:
- A deviated septum or nasal polyps are the most common obstructions
- While they are not infectious in and of themselves, they tend to obstruct the normal flow and drainage of the sinuses and create a desirable growth medium for bacterial infection
Fungal Infections:
- Most common in people who are immune-suppressed and as such, are more susceptible to infection by common fungi such as Aspergillus and Curvularia
- Treated aggressively with IV therapy and paras nasal sinus surgery as this condition can often become a fatal infection
Medication Intolerance:
- On rare occasions, people can have reactions to medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, which leads to inflammation of the sinuses but not infection
Rebound Sinus Headache:
- Overuse of nasal sprays that contain decongestants and anti-inflammatory medication

Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis: self-limited inflammation of the tracheobronchial tree with eventual healing and return to function
Chronic bronchitis: prolonged exposure to nonspecific bronchial irritants resulting in hypersecretion of mucus and productive cough for a period of 3 months for two consecutive years
Types of chronic bronchitis:
- Simple chronic: mild, persistent cough with clear sputum
- Mucopurulent: thick, yellowish sputum due to bacterial infection
- Obstructive: structural damage due to continual infection and inflammation, leading to obstruction and obliteration of small airways

Anatomy

Joints involved: C and T spine, Costovertebral and Sternocostal joints, and Sternoclavicular joints
Muscles involved: diaphragm, intercostals, abdominal muscles, Pectoralis Major and minor, SCM, Scalenes, Thoracic erectors, and Posterior cervical muscles

Signs and Symptoms

Acute:
- Preceded by cold or flu
- Chills, fever, back and muscle pain, sore throat
- Onset of cough signals onset of bronchitis
- Cough is initially dry and non-productive, becomes productive after a few days
- Sputum is suggestive of bacterial infection
- Persistent fever suggests pneumonia
Chronic:
- Cough, sputum, wheeze, dyspnea
- May have a mild smoker’s cough
- Cough, wheeze, recurrent respiratory infections
- Copious sputum with signs of infection
- Tendency to be “Blue Bloaters” in later stages
- Extended or slowed forced expiration (taking longer than 4 seconds) with some wheeze noted towards the end

Causes

Smoking is the most common cause of bronchitis
Pollution
Viral or bacterial agents
Dust, Solvent, fumes, Acids, etc.
Repeated attacks of acute bronchitis

Assessment and Testing

Case history: general health, history of smoking, history of respiratory infections, diagnosis of chronic bronchitis, onset, symptoms, presence of productive cough, color/quality of sputum, presence of blood in sputum, medications, other treatments and results, complicating factors
Observations: postural assessment, tachypnea, cough and sputum, possible cyanosis of lips and nail beds
Palpation: increased tone of accessory muscles of respiration, palpate muscles of the upper chest and shoulders for increased tone, movement of thoracic cage during breathing
Testing: vocal fremitus, percussion tests, breath sounds

Treatment Aims and Techniques

Facilitate removal of secretions
Restore or maintain thoracic mobility
Eliminate muscle spasming and trigger points in overused muscles of respiration or muscles overused due to excessive coughing
Educate client re: FDB and proper coughing and smoking cessation
Address postural conditions
Techniques: myofascial techniques, general Swedish techniques, tapotement, airway clearance, shaking, huff technique, assisted forced expiration/cough technique, joint play, thoracic mobilizations, trigger point therapy, and stretching

Contraindications and Precautions

Fever, infection which indicate contagious disease
Osteoporosis is a precaution due to heavy tapotement in the treatment
Some medications may alter the client’s sensation to pain
People with severe asthma may have to have treatment intensity altered
Some positions and treatment depth may have to be altered in people with circulatory and cardiac complications

Frequency and Remedial Exercise and Self-Care

Frequency: depends upon general health, frequency and severity of condition
Treat for two weeks, 1x week for two weeks, reassess
Remedial exercise and self-care: teach DDB and a productive cough, pec, scalene, SCM stretching, Clapp’s crawl, thoracic self-mobilizations, intercostal and abdominal strengthening

Emphysema

A condition in which the alveoli of the lungs become fibrous and inelastic, limiting the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Characterized by the merging of alveoli, decreasing the surface area, and limiting gas exchange.
Classed with Chronic Bronchitis as a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Causes

Exposure to irritants such as smoking, pollution, and grain dust damages the alveoli.
Long-term exposure to irritants can overcome the protective protein Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT), leading to the destruction of alveolar elastin fibers.
Chronic irritation results in chronic bronchitis, leading to the destruction of the alveoli.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain with breathing
Difficulty breathing on exertion
Little interest in eating
Rales (bubbles, rasps when breathing)
Difficulty exhaling (takes longer)
Pursed lip exhalation
Barrel chest
Diminished diaphragmatic breathing
Loss of general muscle tone due to decreased activity

Complications

More prone to influenza and other respiratory conditions
Bullae may rupture, causing lung collapse
Blood clots
Pulmonary embolism
Heart failure

Assessment

General health
Current symptoms
Onset
Breathlessness and activities that cause it
Productive cough (chronic bronchitis)
Blood pressure
Precipitating factors (smoking, pollution, work-related)
Medication
Other therapies
Activities that must be modified (hot bath or shower, climbing stairs)

Observations

Postural assessment
Barrel chest
Prolonged or pursed lip breathing
Head forward posture
Weight loss
Rosy appearance (Pink Puffers)
Bluish appearance (Blue Bloaters – indicates chronic bronchitis)
Clubbed ends of fingers
Palpation of all muscles of respiration and accessory muscles for hypertrophy and trigger points

Treatment Aims

Early stage: remove irritating stimulus, promote stress reduction, and encourage full diaphragmatic breathing
Later stage: promote relaxation, address general tissue health, and consider contraindications

Remedial Exercise and Self-Care

Teach full diaphragmatic breathing
Teach pursed lip breathing rather than forced expiration
Gentle stretching for neck, shoulders, and chest

Prognosis

Emphysema is an irreversible disease
If found and treated early, further damage can be avoided
Medical attention may include bronchodilators, diuretics, oxygen supplementation, and surgery

Sinusitis

No information provided in the text.

Asthma

Characterized by episodes of acute airway obstruction due to bronchospasm and mucus production from exposure to various stimuli.
More common in children, who may grow out of the condition, but may return in later years.
Risk factors include:
- Childhood history of asthma
- Environmental hazards (city pollution, second-hand smoke)
- Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Eczema
- Hay fever
- Obesity

Signs and Symptoms

During an attack:
- Bronchospasm traps air in the lungs
- Diaphragm unable to relax
- Rib cage unable to relax, intercostals unable to contract
- Air remains in the lungs, difficulty exhaling
- Use of accessory muscles of respiration (scalenes, SCM, upper trapezius) to expand the upper chest
Tendency to breathe with the upper chest
Barrel chest
Hypertonicity of accessory muscles of respiration
Fatigue due to decreased oxygen
Anxiety with deep respiration

Causes

Extrinsic:
- Type 1 hypersensitivity reaction (histamine release)
- External substances (dust, pollen, peanuts, emotional upset)
- Family history
Intrinsic:
- Idiopathic
- Exercise-related
- Respiratory tract infection
- Emotional or physical stress
- Genetic predisposition
Mixed:
- Combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors

Triggers

Smoke
Stress
Respiratory infection
Intense heat or cold
Work-related substances (detergents, plastics, fumes)

Cardiac Asthma

Related to congestive cardiac failure, resulting in excess fluid in the lungs

Assessment and Treatment

Case history:
- General health
- Age of onset
- Type of asthma
- Frequency of attacks
- Known triggers
- Treatment received
- Medications (inhaler)
Aims of treatment:
- Decrease stress and anxiety
- Decrease tone of accessory muscles of respiration
- Increase mobilization of thorax
- Encourage diaphragmatic breathing
- Remove excess secretions between attacks
- Address postural concerns
- Decrease severity and frequency of attacks
Contraindications:
- Do not massage during an attack
- Be aware of triggers
- Avoid stimulating work if stress or physical exertion is a trigger
- Avoid excessive heat or cold in hydrotherapy if it is a trigger
Frequency of treatment:
- 1 hour/week for posture and respiratory function
- General monthly maintenance
Remedial exercise and self-care:
- Encourage diaphragmatic breathing
- General exercise
- Treat for hyper kyphosis if indicated
- Stretches and breathing exercises
- Steams (with precautions)

Prognosis

Asthma can be mild or severe, may remit in childhood, but may return in later years
Associated with more severe cardiopulmonary complications

Cystic Fibrosis

A disorder of the exocrine glands that affects the entire body and is ultimately fatal, usually due to pulmonary complications.
The lungs and pancreas are the most affected organs, but the intestines and kidneys are also commonly affected.
Not officially recognized as a COPD due to its systemic nature, but persistent coughing can lead to Bronchiectasis, which is sometimes considered a COPD.
Life expectancy for untreated CF was less than 5 years old; with modern management, the global average is now 37 years old.
In developed countries, it's not uncommon for CF patients to live into their 50's.

Bronchiectasis

A permanent thickening of the bronchiole walls due to chronic infection/inflammation.
Irreversible and prone to worsening, occasionally considered a member of the ‘COPD’ family.

History of Cystic Fibrosis

First officially diagnosed and labeled in 1938.
Observed historically as far back as the Middle Ages (1595).

Signs and Symptoms

Respiratory symptoms:
- Persistent, productive cough with thick mucus
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Frequent infections of the lungs and sinuses
Digestive symptoms:
- Greasy, foul-smelling stool
- Intestinal blockage and severe constipation (particularly in infants)
- Heartburn
Other symptoms:
- Poor weight gain
- Stunted growth
- Infertility (98% of males, 20% of females)
- Pancreatic complications (e.g., diabetes)
- Excessive salt secretion through the skin

Causes

Mutation of the 'Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator' (CFTR) gene, with over 1900 known mutations.
The gene is recessive, meaning a subject must inherit the defective gene from both parents to develop the disease.
Possibility of being a carrier by possessing one defective gene.

Assessment

Diagnostic testing is done during newborn screening.
Adults can have genetic testing to determine if they are carriers.
'Sweat testing' measures chloride levels in sweat secretions, with a positive result being 60+ mmol/L.

Treatment

Primary aims and treatment protocol are the same as for Chronic Bronchitis (mucus expulsion) and/or Constipation (improving transit time).
Addressing digestive issues first allows for more comfort when placed in the appropriate respiratory drainage position.
Techniques and contraindications are the same as for Bronchitis and Constipation.
Remedial exercise and self-care can be applied as preventive care even if the client is not suffering from digestive problems.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Learn about sinusitis, a condition that occurs when the sinuses become inflamed, and its effects on respiratory health. Discover the purposes of the sinuses and how inflammation affects oxygen absorption.

Sinusitis and Respiratory Conditions

Choose a study mode

Podcast

Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the sinuses in the head?

What is the result of oxygen absorption by the blood vessels in the nasal membrane during inflammation?

What is the response of the membranes to the negative pressure in the sinuses?

What is the characteristic symptom of sinusitis?

Where is the sinus cavity located?

Which of the following is NOT a cause of sinusitis?

What is the characteristic feature of all sinusitis and sinus headache?

What is the common location of pain in a Maxillary Sinus Headache?

What is the primary cause of about 25% of maxillary viral/bacterial sinusitis?

What is the name of the condition characterized by the onset of itchy eyes, roof of mouth, pharynx and eyes?

What is the name of the condition that can occur if a bacterial or viral infection is left untreated?

What is the common feature of a bacterial or viral infection?

What is the name of the most common culprit of allergic sinusitis/ rhinitis?

What is the primary symptom of sinusitis?

What is the common structure that can cause a structural obstruction?

What is a common predisposing factor for fungal infections in the sinuses?

What is a characteristic of rebound sinus headache?

What should be assessed during a case history for sinusitis?

What may indicate possible conjunctivitis during an observation?

What should be palpated initially during the palpation assessment?

What is a short-term aim of treatment for sinusitis?

What may be a long-term aim of treatment for sinusitis?

What should be checked during the testing assessment?

What is a possible complication of chronic use of nasal sprays?

What should be referred for immediate medical treatment during assessment?

What is the recommended treatment for chronic, recurrent sinusitis?

Why is massage contraindicated for clients with fever?

What is the benefit of incorporating facial steams into the treatment?

What is the recommended frequency of treatment during a sinusitis flare-up?

Why should the therapist avoid placing the client in a face cradle if the sinuses are swollen and tender?

What is the benefit of teaching full diaphragmatic breathing to clients with sinusitis?

What is the purpose of incorporating cold compresses over the cheeks, eyes, and forehead?

What essential oil should be avoided in facial steams for clients with Hay Fever or Ragweed allergies?

Why should the therapist work within the client's pain tolerance, especially over the sinuses?

What is the recommended self-care practice for clients with sinusitis?

What is the primary goal of surgery in treating sinusitis?

What medication may be used to treat allergic sinusitis/rhinitis?

What may be administered to hypertensive patients taking oral antihistamines and vasoconstrictors?

What is the mechanism of action of Cromolyn sodium?

When is systemic, oral corticosteroids such as Prednisone typically used?

How is immunosuppressed patients' fungal infections of the sinuses typically treated?

What is Acute Bronchitis?

What is Chronic Bronchitis classified as?

What is the result of irritation and inflammation of the bronchial walls in Bronchitis?

What is a characteristic of Mucopurulent Bronchitis?

What is the role of the diaphragm in anatomy related to respiratory conditions?

What muscles are involved in respiratory anatomy?

What is usually a preceding symptom of bronchitis?

What is a characteristic of chronic bronchitis?

What is a common cause of bronchitis?

What is an important aspect of assessing a client with bronchitis?

What is the purpose of vocal fremitus?

What may indicate pneumonia?

What should the therapist do during percussion tests?

What may be noticed in clients with chronic bronchitis?

What should the therapist assess during a case history for bronchitis?

What is an important aspect of testing for bronchitis?

What is the primary aim of the treatment in terms of facilitating removal of secretions?

What is the recommended position for treating the right middle lobe?

What is the benefit of using inhalations of certain essential oils in the treatment?

What is the purpose of teaching the client how to perform DDB?

What is a contraindication for this treatment?

What is the purpose of the assisted forced expiration/cough technique?

What is the recommended frequency of treatment?

What is the purpose of joint play and thoracic mobilizations in the treatment?

What is the benefit of using tapotement in the treatment?

Why should the therapist arrange a hand signal with the client?

What is the primary function of the alveoli in the lungs?

What is the result of long-term exposure to irritants such as smoking and pollution in the lungs?

What is the role of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protein in the lungs?

What is a characteristic symptom of emphysema?

What is the age range of most emphysema patients?

What is the result of chronic irritation of the bronchioles?

What is a common feature of emphysema patients diagnosed before age 50?

What is the term used to describe the merging of alveoli to form large sacs?

What percentage of their energy does a healthy person expend on breathing?