PMP201 Resp

Goblet Cell function

Secrete mucus

Goblet Cell Hyperplasia (In asthma)

Increases mucus production and thickens the airway epithelium, contributing to chronic narrowing and hyperreactivity characteristic of airway remodeling

Asthma Symptoms

• SOB

• Tight chest

• Wheezing

• Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus

• Chronic unproductive cough

• Variable breathlessness

• Night-time wakening with breathlessness and/or wheeze

3 Main factors in asthma

1. Airway constriction

2. Airway hypersensitivity and responsiveness

3. Mucous hyper-secretion

Asthma Triggers

• Allergens

• Chemicals (E.g hair sprays, paints)

• Drugs

• Foods

• Environmental chemicals (E.g cigarette smoke, wood dust)

• Infections

• Misc.

Extrinsic vs Intrinsic asthma

Extrinsic asthma is caused by external stimuli

Intrinsic is caused by other factors (E.g stress, cold air etc.)

Atopy

A genetic tendency to develop allergic conditions like eczema, asthma and hay fever

Asthma Attacks - 2 Phases

Early phase -

• Increase in resistance to airflow

  • Peaks 30-60 minutes after allergen exposure

  • Subsides 30-90 minutes later

• Immediate response to release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells

Late Phase -

• Can occur a long time after allergen exposure

  • 6+ hours

  • Night time asthma

• Driven by continuation of inflammation characterised by an influx of eosinophils in the lungs

Mast cells - What are they?

Immune cells that release histamine

Eosinophils - What are they

White blood cells - Manage allergic reaction