PHRM 211 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Asthma, Tachypnea, Glucocorticoid
Document Summary
Definition : episodes of progressive increase in sob, cough, wheezing or chest tightness or some combinations of these symptoms; characterized by decreases in expiratory airflow that can be quantified by measurement of lung function (pef or fev1) May only be able to speak in short word sentences. Dry hacking cough, tachypnea, tachycardia, pale or cyanotic skin, hyperinflated chest. Pts at increased risk of asthma-related death include: Currently using or have recently stopped using oral glucocorticoids. History of near-fatal asthma requirement intubation & mechanical ventilation. Hospitalizing or emergency care visit for asthma in the past year. Over dependent on fast acting 2-agonists (i. e. >1 canister of salbutamol/month) History of psychiatric disease or psychosocial problems, including use of sedatives. History of poor adherence w/ asthma medications or written asthma action plan. Triggers: allergen and irritant exposures, exercise, stress, sulfites, use of nsaids and. Blockers in susceptible patients, inhalation of crack cocaine or heroin.
