Question

Pathophysiology of Asthma:

Complete scientific explanation of anatomy and physiology of the affected body system and description and discussion of the disease; onset, signs and symptoms, course of illness, treatment- medical &/or surgical, medications, altered laboratory and diagnostic findings and outcome of illness. Nursing concerns and focus of care.

Answer 1

anatomy of the tracheobroncheal tree

ASTHMA

Asthma is chronic inflammatory disease of the airway. it is the hyperresponsiveness of the tracheobronchial tree, characterized by reversible airway obstruction & bronchospasm. it is a allergy condition in which the airway become more narrow because of muscle contractions surrounding the airways.

S/S-

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness,
• Severe wheezing when breathing both in and out
• Coughing that won't stop, especially at night or early in the morning
• Very rapid breathing
• Chest pain or pressure
• Tightened neck and chest muscles, called retractions
• Difficulty talking
• Feelings of anxiety or panic
• Pale, sweaty face
• Blue lips or fingernails.

Asthma triggers frequently include:

• Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, cockroaches, molds and animal danders
• Irritants in the air, such as smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes and strong odors.
• Extreme weather conditions
• Exercise
• Stress

DIAGNOSIS OR LAB INVESTIGATIONS

•   Pulmonary function test
• Methacholine challenge
• Nitric oxide test
• Allergy testing
• Sputum eosinophils
• Arterial Blood Gas

MANAGEMENT-

There is no cure for asthma, but symptoms can be controlled with effective asthma treatment and management.

1-MEDICAL MANAGEMENT- These are  

• Broncho dialators
• Antileukotrienes or leukotriene modifiers  including montelukast
• Corticosteroids(Inhaled or oral)
• Long-acting inhaled beta2-agonists (always administered with another asthma-related drug)
• Methylxanthines
• Immunomodulators

NURSING MANAGEMENT

OUTCOME- There is no cure for asthma. Symptoms can be prevented by avoiding triggers.

If you have any query please feel free to ask , we will discuss in comment section otherwise like

• Monitor the patient’s vital signs.
• Check pulse oximetry Apply oxygen if O2 saturation is less than 90%

• Educate about triggers/make sure the patient's room does not have any triggers

• Educate about triggers/make sure the patient's room does not have any triggers

• Positioning patient in an upright position

• medication therapy