15 Questions
What is the most common symptom for which patients seek outpatient medical care?
Cough
What initiates the cough reflex according to the given text?
Stimulation of bronchopulmonary sensory nerves
What is the duration range for subacute cough according to the classification provided?
3-8 weeks
Which condition is not listed as an etiologic contributor to acute cough?
Tuberculosis
What is the primary function of the cough reflex according to the text?
To clear mucus and foreign material from the respiratory system
What is the role of the glottis in the process of cough initiation?
It allows air to escape during coughing
Which medical setting does cough frequently lead patients to visit?
Emergency department
Which medication is indicated for the suppression of non-productive cough caused by chemical or mechanical respiratory tract irritation?
Dextromethorphan
What is the primary purpose of expectorants such as Guaifenesin in the treatment of cough?
Loosening and thinning lower respiratory tract secretions
Which medication is a nonopioid with no analgesic, sedative, respiratory depressant, or addictive properties at usual antitussive doses?
Dextromethorphan
Which medication acts centrally in the medulla to raise the cough threshold?
Diphenhydramine
Which medication is toxic if ingested and can cause burning sensations in the mouth, nausea and vomiting, seizures, and death?
Camphor
Which medication should be avoided for chronic cough associated with chronic lower respiratory tract diseases such as asthma, COPD, or emphysema, or for smoker’s cough?
Guaifenesin
Which medication is abused for its phencyclidine-like euphoric effect?
Dextromethorphan
Which medication is indicated for the suppression of non-productive cough?
Chlophedianol
Study Notes
Common Symptoms and Visiting Patterns
- Cough is the most common symptom prompting patients to seek outpatient medical care.
- Cough frequently leads patients to medical settings, especially during acute respiratory events.
Cough Reflex and Classification
- The cough reflex is initiated by irritants in the respiratory tract.
- Subacute cough is classified with a duration range of 3 to 8 weeks.
- Certain conditions, such as non-respiratory illnesses, are not considered etiologic contributors to acute cough.
Functions and Mechanisms of Cough
- The primary function of the cough reflex is to clear the airways of irritants and secretions.
- The glottis plays a vital role during cough initiation by temporarily closing to build up pressure before expulsion.
Medications for Cough
- Dextromethorphan is indicated for suppressing non-productive cough caused by airway irritation.
- Guaifenesin, an expectorant, aids in treating cough by thinning mucus, facilitating easier expulsion.
- Benzonatate is a nonopioid cough suppressant with no analgesic, sedative, respiratory depressant, or addictive properties at usual doses.
- Codeine and hydrocodone act centrally in the medulla to raise the cough threshold and suppress coughing.
Toxic and Risky Medications
- Camphor can be toxic if ingested, leading to severe reactions such as burning sensations, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and potentially fatal outcomes.
- The use of codeine should be avoided in chronic cough associated with conditions like asthma, COPD, or emphysema, as well as in smoker’s cough.
- Dextromethorphan is commonly abused for its euphoric effect, resembling phencyclidine (PCP).
Summary of Indications
- Medications indicated for the suppression of non-productive cough include dextramethorphan and benzonatate, while guaifenesin is used to facilitate productive cough through mucus clearance.
Test your knowledge of the basics of cough, including its types, causes, and over-the-counter treatment options. Explore both medication and non-medication approaches for managing cough, as well as special considerations for certain populations.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
