Asthma II

Pathophysiology Course

Diagnostics
PFT - Pulmonary Function Test
This diagnostic test shows how well the lungs are working.
It measures total lung capacity, volume, gas exchange & rates
of flow. This data helps the healthcare provider (HCP) diagnose
& treat lung disorders

Peak Expiratory Flow Rate Red zone

• Red means Really bad!
• Sort of like a weather forecast - we want to anticipate • Emergency treatment is needed immediately if the level
a Severe asthma attack - before it happens! does not return to yellow RIGHT after taking rescue drugs!

Green zone Correct Order - Peak Flow Meter

• Green means go.

900

800

700

600

500

400

300

200

100
1. Stand or sit in upright position
• Asthma is around 80 - 100% under control. 2. Put the flow meter scale to 0 or
lowest value
3. Inhale deeply
Yellow zone 4. Put the mouthpiece in mouth &
create a seal with the lips

100

200

300

400
• Yellow means mellow.

500

600

700

800

900
5. Exhale as quickly & forcibly as
• Asthma is NOT under control here! So there is a possible & record reading 320
HUGE need for additional medication 6. Repeat 2 more times, with a
1. Rescue drug every 4 hours for 1-2 days break of 5 -10 seconds between
2. Call HCP (provider) 7. Record 1 score = the HIGHEST
NEED additional meds or change in treatment of the 3 attempts

Triggers Anything that can irritate the sensitive bronchi:

- Cigarette smoke
- Pollen
- Dust
- Strenuous exercise
- Cold weather

MEMORY TRICKS

A Allergens (dander, dust, pollen)

Elevated Eosinophils

S S - Smoking (second hand cigarette smoke)

S - Stress (emotional, physical)

Patho Test Tips

Drugs to AVOID
Extrinsic (External) NAPROXEN
Type I hypersensitivity • N - NSAIDS Naproxen, Aspirin, ibuprofen, KETOROLAC

Immediate allergic reaction indomethacin, & ketorolac

• N - Not good for Asthma
Intrinsic (Internal)
Airway hyperresponsiveness (Adult onset)
Asthma attacks brought on by:
• S - Sickness (Respiratory infection) • B - Beta blockers
• S - Stress • B - Blocked HR & lungs
• S - Severe weather (cold) • Propranolol (Inderal) = Nonselective
• S - Strenuous activity (exercise)
• Atenolol = Selective (cardio “Beta 1” selective)
• Drugs