Chronic Asthma
Epidemiology
"The production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to exposure to allergens" (Hammer & McPhee, 2014, p. 229).
Pathophysiology
"As a consequence of airway inflammation and smooth muscle hyperresponsiveness, the airways are narrowed, resulting in an increase in airway resistance" (Hammer & McPhee, 2014, p. 230).
Clinical Presentation
Dyspnea/chest tightness
Wheezing
Cough
Tachypnea
Tachycardia
Hypoxemia
Hypercapnia
Diagnosis
History and physical
Arterial blood gas
Spirometry
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Treatment
Short-acting bronchodilators
Inhaled corticosteroids
Long-acting beta agonists
Leukotriene receptor antagonists
Leukotriene inhibitor
Methylxanthines
Cromolyn
Monoclonals