Asthma Treatment & Management PDF

ASTHMA Capao, Joanna Mhel A. 3-E  O BJ E C T I V E S : After 20 minutes of discussion, the BSN 3 students will be able to: Explain its definition, causes, and common triggers of asthma. Examine the symptoms and impact of asthma To understand and discuss preventio...

ASTHMA Capao, Joanna Mhel A. 3-E  O BJ E C T I V E S : After 20 minutes of discussion, the BSN 3 students will be able to: Explain its definition, causes, and common triggers of asthma. Examine the symptoms and impact of asthma To understand and discuss prevention, treatment, and management strategies  W H A T IS A STH M A ? Asthma is a heterogenous disease, usually characterized by chronic airway inflammation. This chronic inflammatory disease of the airway causes airway hyperresponsiveness, mucosal edema, and mucos production.  AS T H M A S Y M P TO M S General Symptoms: Symptoms of an asthma attack: Severe wheezing and Wheezing and breathlessness breathlessness Fast breathing Excessive coughing Fast heartbeat Tightening in the chest Drowsiness Blue lips  A STH M A C AUSES The exact cause of asthma is still unknown, but research suggests the following factors could increase the chance of getting asthma: Having an Childhood Genetics Pollution allergy-related exposure to condition tobacco smoke  PATHOPHYSIOLOGY Asthma is characterized by reversible airway inflammation, leading to long-term narrowing of the airways. This narrowing is caused by bronchoconstriction, airway edema, hyperresponsiveness, and structural changes. Various inflammatory cells and mediators, such as histamine and leukotrienes, contribute to the condition. During asthma attacks, smooth muscle contractions and the release of these chemicals lead to airway constriction. Over time, persistent inflammation can cause airway remodeling, making the disease more severe and less reversible.  A S T H M A D I A G N O S IS A general doctor is usually able to diagnose asthma or may refer a patient to a specialist. The following tests can be carried out to diagnose asthma: Spirometry: blowing into Peak flow test: FeNO test: breathing a machine to measure regularly blowing into a into a machine to how fast the patient can device to measure how measure the level of breathe out, and the air fast the patient can nitric oxide, indicating capacity of the lungs. breathe out. lung inflammation.  PREVENTION Patients with recurrent asthma should be tested for triggers like dust, pets, molds, and pollens, and avoid them when possible. Occupational asthma, caused by workplace exposures like dust or fumes, accounts for 5-20% of new cases. Identifying triggers through a detailed work history is key. Treatment focuses on reducing exposure and using standard asthma medications. Compensation systems exist for work-related asthma, but they can be difficult to navigate. MEDICAL MANAGEMENT Primary asthma treatment focuses on preventing lung function impairment, minimizing symptoms, and preventing exacerbations. Asthma control is assessed by managing symptoms and reducing future risks. In acute cases, rapid intervention helps relieve bronchoconstriction and prevents anxiety, which can worsen breathing difficulties. Poor symptom control raises the risk of exacerbations.  N U R S I N G M A N A G E M EN T Immediate nursing care for asthma depends on symptom severity. Mild cases may be treated outpatient, while severe cases require hospitalization. Nurses assess respiratory status, administer medications, monitor responses, and provide fluids if needed. If intubation is required, the nurse assists and keeps the patient and family informed. A calm approach is essential to ease anxiety.  T R E A T I N G A STH M A Complementary Inhalers: Tablets: Injections: therapies: preventer, LTRAs, prescribed breathing reliever or theophylline by a exercises and combination and steroids. specialist. relaxation inhalers. techniques.  L IV I N G W I T H A STH M A Be consistent Have regular Have the flu Keep a healthy with treatment. check-ups. vaccine. lifestyle. Thank you!