Asthma

What are the two leading causes of death in the UK that are neck and neck in terms of prevalence?

Cardiovascular disease and cancer, each accounting for about a quarter of deaths.

What percentage of deaths in the UK is attributed to respiratory diseases?

About 10%.

What is the primary cause of death in dementia patients?

Pneumonia, which is classified as a respiratory disease.

What has contributed to the decrease in deaths from cardiovascular disease in the past few decades?

Improvements in medical care and lifestyle changes.

Define asthma in terms of its obstruction characteristic.

Asthma is a reversible obstruction in the airways often triggered by non-noxious stimuli.

How does asthma manifest in children who cannot communicate their condition?

They may exhibit coughing or wheezing during an asthma attack.

Approximately how many people suffer from asthma worldwide?

About 300 million.

What type of muscle cells compose the airway walls in the lungs?

Smooth muscle cells.

What type of receptors do parasympathetic neurons act through to induce airway contraction?

Muscarinic receptors.

What is the role of mucus in the respiratory system?

Mucus traps microbes and debris, helping to protect the lungs.

What are beta-2 adrenergic agonists used for in asthma treatment?

They relax the smooth muscle in the airways and increase airflow.

What is chronic inflammation, and why is it harmful?

Chronic inflammation is long-term inflammation that can cause tissue damage and lead to various diseases.

What effect does adrenaline have on the airways during physical activity?

Adrenaline prompts bronchodilation, expanding the airways for better airflow.

What is the inflammatory process in asthma primarily associated with?

Eosinophils, which contribute to airway hyperresponsiveness.

What are common triggers for asthma attacks?

Allergens like pollen, dust mites, and irritant chemicals.

What is the purpose of glucocorticoids in asthma treatment?

To decrease inflammation in the airways.

How does the sympathetic nervous system affect the airways?

It relaxes airway smooth muscle, promoting bronchodilation.

What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its main types?

COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease, primarily consisting of chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

What lifestyle choice is primarily responsible for chronic bronchitis?

Smoking.

How is emphysema characterized in the lungs?

Destruction of the alveoli and elastic lung tissue, leading to the loss of elasticity.

How does age affect lung function?

Lung capacity decreases with age, exacerbating problems for smokers.

What is the significance of lung function tests in diagnosing COPD?

They measure how well the lungs are working and how quickly air can be expelled.

What is the role of the acetylcholine neurotransmitter in bronchoconstriction?

Acetylcholine causes smooth muscle contraction in the airways, leading to narrowing.

What major infectious disease was a common cause of death in the early 20th century?

Pneumonia.

What is the primary treatment for bacterial pneumonia?

Antibiotics, such as amoxicillin.

Why is influenza considered more severe than the common cold?

Influenza causes more severe systemic symptoms and can lead to hospitalization.

What potential complication can arise from influenza infections?

Pneumonia.

What type of test is best for diagnosing COVID-19?

PCR test.

What enzyme in the body does COVID-19 bind to, facilitating its infection?

ACE2 (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2)

What is a cytokine storm, and how is it related to COVID-19 severity?

A hyperinflammatory response that can lead to lung damage and respiratory failure.

What is the method of transmission for tuberculosis (TB)?

Aerosolized droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

What are the main symptoms of tuberculosis?

Chronic cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

How is tuberculosis diagnosed?

Through skin tests, blood tests, or chest X-rays.

What role does the immune response play in TB infection?

The immune response can either control or fail to control the infection, leading to symptoms.

What are the common antifungal treatments used for fungal infections?

Azoles and echinocandins.

What is the primary issue with cystic fibrosis?

Thick, sticky mucus obstructing the airways, leading to infections.

What breakthrough treatment exists for cystic fibrosis?

Drugs like Lumacaftor that correct protein misfolding in CFTR (a chloride channel on the surface of cells, )channels. Mutation of cftr causes build up of mucus

What is the main treatment strategy for patients with severe cystic fibrosis?

Chronic antimicrobial therapy (reduce bacterial load by inhale of antibiotics )and inhaled mucolytics(less thick).

What is pulmonary embolism, and what causes it?

A blockage of the pulmonary artery, usually caused by blood clots from the legs.

What is the treatment for pulmonary embolism?

Anticoagulants like heparin and thrombolytics.

How do COVID-19 vaccines function to protect individuals?

They prepare the immune system to recognize and fight the virus.

What is the importance of patient education regarding the use of asthma medications?

Ensures correct usage and helps manage symptoms effectively.

What adaptation can sometimes be seen in asthmatic patients regarding exercise?

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

What is the expected lifespan for individuals with cystic fibrosis with current treatments?

Around 50 years.

What diagnostic test is frequently used to assess the thickness of mucus in cystic fibrosis patients?

Sweat test to measure chloride levels.

What is the consequence of untreated severe pneumonia?

It can lead to respiratory failure and death.