ASTHMA
Asthma - what is it and how do we treat it?
Definition- Asthma is a reversible narrowing of the airways of the lung. This means that it is variable and responds to treatment . The degree of narrowing can be assessed by
measuring peak flow rate (PFR)
Airways - narrowing is caused by two mechanisms;
a) muscle spasm in small airway walls
b) increased volume and viscosity of catarrh in airways
Spectrum - Asthma is a condition that varies from very mild with
occasional symptoms to severe with frequent hospital
admissions.
Triggers - viral illnesses like colds can increase airway sensitivity
- cigarette smoking will do the same.
- cold air
- emotion and stress
- exercise
- house dust mite / pollen / animals / allergy.
Treatment
Relievers / symptomatic treatment / bronchodilators
Relieve muscle spasm - short term benefit - quick action
EG Salbutamol(VENTOLIN) Terbutaline (BRICANYL)
Preventers / inhaled steroids
Reduce inflammation - long term ease of symptoms-
no benefit in acute attack
EG Beclomethasone (BECOTIDE) and Budesonide (PULMICORT)
Dr. Elliot
April 1999