Student study

group
ASTHMA
 •I. Introduction
•II. Objectives
•III. Signs and Symptoms
•V. Pathophysiology
•VI. Management

TABLE OF • Pharmaceutical Management

• Medical Management
CONTENT: • Surgical Management
• Supplemental Management
• Nursing Management
•VII. Nursing Care Plan
•VIII. Attendance
•IX. Documentation
asthma


INTRODUCTION
Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing. It is an
inflammatory disorder of the airways that affects 10-15% of the population worldwide and most commonly
occurs in children and adolescents. In those affected by asthma, their airways will become swollen,
constricted, and filled with mucus, making it difficult to breathe normally.

When someone experiences an asthma attack, also known as an exacerbation or flare-up, their symptoms can
worsen, resulting in further difficulty breathing and other physical changes such as a rapid heartbeat or chest
tightness. Common triggers for asthmatic attacks include exercise, dust mites, strong smells, or cigarette smoke.
The severity of these asthma attacks can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the individual’s
sensitivity to triggers. The most common causes of asthma are allergies and environmental triggers such as
smoke or air pollution. Allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites can induce an allergic reaction in some
individuals, leading to inflammation in their airways.

Exposure to tobacco smoke has been shown to increase the risk of asthma in children who have not yet
developed the condition. Other environmental pollutants, such as cleaning products or aerosol sprays, may also
trigger an attack by irritating a person’s lungs. Common symptoms of asthma include Wheezing, which sounds
like a whistling noise when you breathe, chest tightness – feeling like something heavy is pressing on your chest

• Coughing – either dry or wet coughs that are worse at night

• Difficulty breathing – feeling out of breath when doing everyday activities such as climbing stairs or walking
uphill

Other less common signs may include fatigue, loss of appetite, anxiety or panic attacks, facial swelling, and
excessive mucus production in your throat. Understanding asthma is crucial for effective management and
improving the quality of life for those affected. Ongoing research continues to explore the complex interactions
between genetics, environment, and the immune system, aiming to enhance treatment options and preventive
measures. Through education and awareness, we can empower individuals to take control of their asthma and
lead healthier lives.
 • To gain deeper understanding and
extensive knowledge about Asthma
which includes its causes, signs and
II. OBJECTIVES symptoms, pathophysiology and its
management. This tends to raise
awareness and enhance the
understanding of Asthma.
III. RISK FACTORS
I. Genetic Predisposition:

• - Family History: A family history of asthma is a

major risk factor. Having one asthmatic parent
increases the risk from threefold to sixfold
compared to having no family history. This risk
escalates further if both parents have asthma.

• - Atopy: Atopy, a genetic predisposition to

developing allergic conditions like eczema, hay
fever, and allergic conjunctivitis, is strongly
associated with asthma. Children with eczema
often develop hay fever and subsequently asthma,
a phenomenon known as the "atopic march."

• - Genetic Components: Over 100 genes have been

linked to asthma, primarily affecting immune
responses and lung function. These genes influence
the body's reaction to allergens, inflammation
pathways, and airway structure.
II. Environmental Factors:
• - Air Pollution: Urban environments, with higher pollution levels, often exhibit higher asthma
prevalence. Indoor pollutants like cigarette smoke, mold, cockroach allergens, and fumes
from household cleaners also contribute.

• - Tobacco Smoke: Exposure to tobacco smoke, both active and passive, is a major risk factor
for developing asthma and experiencing more severe symptoms. Prenatal exposure, when
the fetus is developing, is particularly hazardous. Postnatal exposure, even in low doses, can
trigger airway inflammation and increase the risk of exacerbation. Smoking also impairs
asthma control and reduces the effectiveness of corticosteroids.

• - Allergies: Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold. These
substances trigger the release of inflammatory mediators, leading to airway narrowing and
symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Multiple allergies (poly-
sensitization) and food allergies are associated with more severe asthma.

• - Infections: Early childhood respiratory infections, particularly viral infections like RSV
(respiratory syncytial virus) and the common cold, can trigger wheezing and increase the
risk of developing asthma, especially in atopic individuals. These infections can damage the
airways and sensitize the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to asthma
triggers. The "hygiene hypothesis" suggests that early exposure to certain microbes,
particularly in a rural environment, might offer some protection against allergic diseases,
including asthma.

• - Obesity: Obesity contributes to chronic inflammation, impacting airway function and

increasing the risk of asthma exacerbation.

• - Occupational Exposures: Industries like baking, farming, and manufacturing pose higher
risks due to exposure to specific substances that trigger airway inflammation and asthma
symptoms. Occupational asthma often develops gradually, with symptoms appearing weeks
or months after exposure.

• - Other Factors: Premature birth, low birth weight, and maternal smoking during pregnancy
are also linked to increased asthma risk. These factors can impair lung development, leading
to increased susceptibility to asthma. Stress, vitamin D deficiency, and exposure to certain
environmental toxins have also been implicated in asthma risk.
 III. Demographic Factors:

• - Age and Gender: Childhood asthma is more common in boys. Adult-onset

asthma is more prevalent in women.

• - Racial and Ethnic Disparities: Higher asthma rates are observed in certain
minority groups. Socioeconomic factors, healthcare access, and environmental
exposures contribute to these disparities.
IV. SIGN AND
SYMPTOMS

Asthma is characterized by inflammation of the

bronchial tubes, leading to increased production of
sticky secretions. Symptoms occur when the airways
tighten, swell, or fill with mucus. Common symptoms
include:
• Coughing, especially at night
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness, pain, or pressure

Not everyone with asthma experiences the same

symptoms, and their severity can vary over time or
between attacks. Some individuals may go long periods
without symptoms, while others may experience them
daily or only during exercise or viral infections.
Early Symptoms of Asthma Symptoms of an Asthma Attack

An asthma attack involves a tightening of the muscles around the

Early warning signs can occur just airways, known as bronchospasm. Symptoms may include:
before or at the onset of an asthma  Severe wheezing
attack. Recognizing these signs can  Persistent coughing
help prevent an attack from  Rapid breathing
worsening:  Chest pain or pressure
• Frequent cough, especially at night  Muscle retractions in the neck and chest
• Easy shortness of breath
 Difficulty speaking
• Fatigue or weakness during exercise
•  Feelings of anxiety or panic
Wheezing or coughing post-exercise
• Mood changes (grouchiness, anxiety)  Pale, sweaty face
• Decreased lung function (measured on a  Blue lips or fingernails
peak flow meter)
• Signs of allergies or colds (sneezing, runny The severity of an attack can escalates quickly, so immediate
nose) treatment is crucial. Without prompt intervention, symptoms can
• Trouble sleeping worsen significantly, leading to severe complications.
Asthma Symptoms in Children Unusual Asthma Symptoms
 Asthma affects approximately
10% to 12% of children in the Not everyone with asthma experiences classic
U.S. Symptoms often begin by symptoms. Some individuals may have unusual
age 5. Not all children exhibit manifestations, including:
typical symptoms like wheezing; • Rapid breathing
chronic coughing can be the only • Sighing
visible sign, sometimes • Fatigue
• Difficulty exercising (exercise-induced asthma)
misattributed to bronchitis. Early
• Nighttime asthma
diagnosis and management are
• Anxiety
essential for improving outcomes
• Chronic cough without wheezing
in children with asthma.
Infants may show signs of respiratory
distress, such as bobbing head, grunting,
or irritability. Recognizing these signs early
can lead to timely intervention.
Early Warning Signs of an Asthma Episode or
Attack
• Identifying early warning signs can help manage and control
asthma. Common early warning signs may include:
• Increased mucus production
• Runny or congested nose
• Itchy neck or chin
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Posture changes (raised shoulders, slouching)

Regular monitoring and communication with

healthcare providers can help establish effective
management to individual needs.
V. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
IV. MANAGEMENT
•PHARMACEUTICAL MANAGEMENT

DRUG ACTION INDICATION ADVERSE NURSING DRUG ACTION INDICATION ADVERSE NURSING
EFFECT CONDITION EFFECT CONDITION
Generic name: -Salbutamol -Relief of -It can cause - consider using Generic -Opens up the -Always consult -While -Monitor for
Salbutamol inhaler works bronchospasm; some side a spacer device, name: airways, with a salbutamol improvemen
by relaxing the it quickly effects. These especially for Salbutamol allowing for healthcare guaifenesin is ts in
muscles in the relaxes the side effects are children or guaifenesin better airflow. professional, generally safe respiratory
airways, making muscles in the naturally mild individuals with By working including for most people, symptoms,
Brand name: together, salbutamol it can cause such as
Ventolin it easier to airway and go away on poor inhalation
breathe. It does providing relief their own, such techniques. Brand name: salbutamol guaifenesin. Do some side decreased
this by from wheezing, as tremor, Monitor Venzadril guaifenesin not exceed the effects such as; cough,
simulating beta- shortness of nervousness, patients’ helps to relieve recommended easier
Route:  Nervousne
2 receptors in breath and headache, response to respiratory dosage. If you breathing
Inhalation symptoms experience any ss and and less
the lungs, which chest tightness muscle cramps, medication, Route: Oral restlessnes
causes the associated with rapid heartbeat, including such as side effects, wheezing.
coughing, such as rapid s Observe for
muscles around asthma a COPD. dry mouth and improvement in  Tremors
Dose: the airways to throat; allergic respiratory wheezing and heartbeat, side effects
Dose: 10 to  Headache
relax. This Salbutamol is a reaction, heart symptoms. shortness of tremors, or like
10ml 20ml of  Dizziness
opens the rescue problems, low breath difficulty tachycardia,
salbutamol expectorant  Rapid
airways, medication and potassium especially in breathing, seek tremors,
(4mg of should not be syrup (2 to conditions like medical heartbeat nervousness
allowing more levels and  Nausea
salbutamol) 3 used as long- 4mg asthma, attention and
air to flow in paradoxical and
or 4 times a term control salbutamol) bronchitis and immediately. headache.
and out of the bronchospasm. vomiting
day. medication. 2 or 3 times emphysema. Be aware of
lungs. The  Muscle
a day. potential
effects of cramps
Salbutamol are interactions
 Severs
Classification: typically felt with other
allergic medications,
within a few Classification
bronchodilato reactions especially
minutes of :
rs  Irregular
using the Bronchodilat those that
heartbeat can affect
inhaler and can or
 Low
last for several expectorant heart rate or
potassium potassium
hours. combination
levels levels.
DRUG ACTION INDICATION ADVERS EFFECTS NURSING
COSIDERATION
Generic name: -Dexamethasone works -Dexamethasone is a -Can cause several side -Emphasize the
by suppressing the potent medication and effects, especially with importance of taking the
Dexamethasone
immune system’s should only be used long-term use or high medication as
response to various under the supervision of doses. Some of the prescribed, even if
diseases and reducing a healthcare common side effects: symptoms improve.
Brand name: inflammation. It mimics professional. Long-term Educate patients about
Dexasone  Fluid retention
the action of cortisol; a use can have significant potential side effects,
 Increased appetite
hormone produced by side effects, so it is such as fluid retention,
 Mood changes
the adrenal glands and crucial to weigh the mood changes and
 Insomnia or
Route: Oral affects various bodily benefits against the increased blood sugar
difficulty sleeping
functions. risks. levels. Advise patients to
 Headache
Dexamethasone also report any signs of
 Increased blood
Dose: decreases the body’s infection promptly.
pressure
inflammation response, Explain the potential for
10 to 20ml of  Increased blood
which can help alleviate adrenal suppression with
expectorant syrup (2 sugar levels
symptoms like swelling, long-term use and the
to 4mg salbutamol) 2 redness and pain. It can importance of tapering
or 3 times a day. stabilize cell the dose under medical
Serious Side Effects
membranes, reducing supervision.
the release of  Weakened immune
Classification: inflammation system
Classified as a substances.  Osteoporosis
glucocorticoid.  Cataracts and
Glucocorticoids are a glaucoma
type of corticosteroid  Increased risk of
hormone that helps infections
regulate various  Adrenal gland
bodily functions, suppression
including immune  Psychological
response and disturbances
inflammation.
•B. MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
•The medical management for asthma involves
medications inhaled/oral. It is important that inhales
must always be ready healthcare providers typically
use:
• Medications long term medication- involve a
combination of long-term control and quick relief
medication such as:
• Long- acting beta agonists
• Leukotriene modifiers
• Theophylline
• Biology
• Anticholinergics
•Additional Considerations: Asthma Action Plan: A
personalized plan to manage asthma and recognize
when to seek help. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of
symptoms and lung function to adjust treatment as
needed. Patient Education: Important for understanding
triggers, proper inhaler technique, and medication
adherence.
•C. SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
•Surgical management of asthma is not
common, as asthma is primarily treated with
medications and lifestyle modifications.
However, in certain cases, surgical options
may be considered, particularly for patients
with severe, refractory asthma. Here are
some surgical approaches:
• Bronchial Thermoplasty: This minimally
invasive procedure involves applying
heat to the airway walls to reduce the
smooth muscle mass, which can help
decrease the frequency and severity of
asthma attacks. It's typically reserved for
patients with severe asthma that doesn't
respond well to medication.
 Endobronchial Valve Placement: This technique may be used for patients with severe asthma and
associated bronchial obstruction. Valves are placed in the airways to block off overinflated sections of the
lung, which can improve airflow in healthier areas.

 Lung Transplantation: For patients with extremely severe asthma that leads to respiratory failure
and other complications, lung transplantation might be a last resort, though this is very rare.

These options are generally considered only after

comprehensive evaluation and when traditional therapies
have failed. Always consult with a healthcare professional
for personalized advice and treatment options.
D. SUPPLEMENTAL MANAGEMENT
• REGULAR EXERCISE- it can relax and promote well-being, increase endurance capacity,
boost the immune system, and strengthen the respiratory muscles, making it easier to
breathe in and out deeply.
• Black seed oil- improves lung functions and maintains the oxidant-antioxidant balance.
• Turmeric-reduced airway obstruction and could be helpful complementary treatment for
asthma.
• Ginseng- boosts the immune system, improves lung function, it may increase bronchial
relaxation, easing breathing difficulties.
• Garlic- anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could benefit asthma.
• Honey- it has a natural soothing effect on the throat, which can benefit asthma patients
who often experience coughing fits.
E. NURSING MANAGEMENT
• The nursing care of a patient with asthma includes the following: Assessment of a patient
with asthma includes History: patient history can reliably the presence of asthma. The
patient's illness started when he was operating a public transport vehicle, and he inhaled
dust and fumes along the highway every time he drove. And he was smoking back then,
and during this time he is still inhaling dust in their house due to their rice milling business.
 NURSING GOALS ARE MET FOR A PATIENT WITH ASTHMA AS EVIDENCED BY:
• Patients will identify triggers and implement strategies to avoid them.
• Patient will report on improved quality of life and participate in desired activities.
• Patients demonstrate the correct use of inhalers.
• Patients will demonstrate improved airway clearance.
VII. Nursing Care
Plan
 DATE:
AREA:
VIII. CLINICAL INSTRUCTOR:
GROUP MEMBERS: TIME IN SIGNATURE
ATTENDANCE Benhon, Kyla Mae A.
Bu-ucan, Kimberly
Claire C.
Cabbigat, Hillary Viene
G.
Campol, Camille N.
Campos, Gislaine Leigh
Cuyahon, Chermille
Gwen E.
Dulnuan, Nikki P.
Fausto, Gianne T.
Lapurga Jr., Dexter D.
Lencio, Klanor Shane M.
Licnachan, Rose Denn
B.
IX. Documentation