Posted: December 28th, 2022

Pathophysiology of asthma essay

Pathophysiology of asthma essay

Discussion: Pathophysiology of Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory condition in the US affecting both children and adults. Findings from current epidemiological evidence indicate that the prevalence of asthma across the globe is increasing, especially in the young population (Quirt et al., 2018) Pathophysiology of asthma essay. Knowledge on the pathophysiology of asthma is crucial for nurses as it improves the overall understanding and ability to diagnose and manage asthma.

BUY A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER 

Asthma is an acute condition that involves reversible inflammation of the airways after exposure to an allergen. Its pathophysiology starts with inhaling an allergen (which can be cold air, pollen, or smoke) which due to hypersensitivity of the bronchial, causes inflammation of the airways and an increase in the production of mucus (Bush, 2019). Ultimately, the resistance of the airways increases, which is best auscultated on expiration. Obstruction of the airways is associated with infiltration of inflammatory cells, hypersecretion of mucus that causes the formation of a mucus plug, and contraction of smooth muscles (Bush, 2019). Pathophysiology of asthma essay Over time, the aforementioned changes may be irreversible due to thickening of the basement membrane, deposition, remodeling of the airways, hyperplasia, and hyperplasia of the airways.

According to the 2019 GINA guidelines on the management of asthma, clinicians should manage patients diagnosed with mild intermittent ICS with a SABA (short acting beta agonist). This recommendation follows previous research findings that although the management of mild intermittent asthma with a SABA only provides short-term relief of asthma symptoms, it fails to safeguard patients from the risk of exacerbations and subsequent hospitalization (Elward, 2021).  In contrast, combining reliever therapy and single maintenance therapy decreases the risk of potential adverse effects associated with the chronic use of steroids, decreases visits to the ED and simplifies the medication regimen that the patient will use. Therefore, I would prescribe Emily ICS-formoterol and a SABA and educate her to watch out for the following adverse effects; hives, swelling of the eyes, face, lips, and tongue, palpitations, and itching. While taking these medications Emily will have to take daily measurements with a peak flow meter to evaluate her progress and effectiveness of the prescribed drugs (Elward, 2021). The author will educate her about the essence of medication adherence, the correct inhaler technique, breathing techniques, and the need to identify her potential triggers and avoid them. Potential asthma triggers include; dust, mite, insects, pets, cold air, pollen, and dust among others. The most significant drug interaction with formoterol is that of lasix which causes hypokalemia. Subsequently, hypokalemia may result in difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, an irregular heart rhythm, and paralysis Pathophysiology of asthma essay.

References

Bush A. (2019). Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Asthma. Frontiers in pediatrics, 7, 68. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2019.00068

Elward, K. S. (2021). Asthma Management Guidelines: Focused Updates for 2020. American family physician, 104(5), 446-447.

Quirt, J., Hildebrand, K. J., Mazza, J., Noya, F., & Kim, H. (2018). Asthma. Allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology : official journal of the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 14(Suppl 2), 50. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13223-018-0279-0  Pathophysiology of asthma essay