The Respiratory System Pathophysiology BMS 243 The Respiratory System COPD Dr. Aya M. Serry 2017

What is COPD? COPD is a condition in which; The lungs have become permanently altered The airways in the lungs are constantly narrowed Chronic inflammation creates difficulty breathing

Two Major Causes of COPD

Bronchitis Bronchitis is inflammation of the inner lining of the Bronchi Chronic Bronchitis is characterized by: Chronic inflammation and excess mucus production Presence of chronic productive cough

Emphysema Emphysema is long-term destruction of lungs over time Emphysema is a chronic lung disease caused by damage to the alveoli, where exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place. This damage to the alveoli results in air becoming trapped, causing them to expand and rupture

COPD Risk Factors Smoking is the primary risk factor Long-term smoking is responsible for 80-90 % of cases Smoker, compared to non-smoker, is 10 times more likely to die of COPD Prolonged exposures to harmful particles and gases from: Second-hand smoke Industrial smoke Chemical gases, vapors & fumes Dusts from grains, minerals & other materials

Cigarette smoking

Symptoms of COPD Fatigue Frequent respiratory infections Cough with or without mucous Fatigue Frequent respiratory infections Shortness of breath Wheezing

Diagnosis of COPD To diagnose COPD, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, do a physical exam, and conduct breathing tests. The most common breathing test used to confirm a diagnosis of COPD is spirometry. This easy, painless test involves breathing into a large hose connected to a machine, called a spirometer. The spirometer measures how much air your lungs can hold and how fast you can blow air out of your lungs. Your doctor may suggest additional tests problems. These may include other lung function tests, a chest X-ray, or a test to measure the level of oxygen in your blood.

Medical Treatment of COPD COPD can be managed, but not cured Treatment is different for each individual and is based on severity of the symptoms Before you take your medications, The doctor will order you to stop smoking immediately Medications: Bronchodilators [Salbutamol (Ventoline®)] – Relaxes muscles around airways (β2 adrenergic agonists) Steroids -- Reduces inflammation Oxygen therapy -- Helps with shortness of breath

Treatment of COPD Medications that are given to prevent further Complications are: Annual flu vaccine -- Reduces risk of flu and its complications Pneumonia vaccine -- Reduces risk of common cause of pneumonia

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