Describe causes of Upper respiratory infections and drug therapy
Discuss triggers of asthma and treatment option
Discuss corticosteroids
Describe chronic bronchitis and treatment options
Submission Instructions:
Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in the current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.
Each question must be answered individually as in bullet points.
### Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)
#### Causes
– **Viral Infections**: The most common cause of URIs are viruses such as rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and influenza viruses.
– **Bacterial Infections**: Although less common, bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis can also cause URIs.
– **Environmental Factors**: Exposure to pollutants, allergens, and irritants can increase susceptibility to URIs.
– **Close Contact**: Being in close quarters with infected individuals, such as in schools, workplaces, and public transportation, facilitates the spread of URIs.
#### Drug Therapy
– **Antivirals**: Medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) are used for treating influenza.
– **Antibiotics**: Prescribed for bacterial infections, such as amoxicillin for bacterial sinusitis or strep throat.
– **Symptomatic Relief**: Over-the-counter medications like decongestants (pseudoephedrine), antihistamines (diphenhydramine), and pain relievers (ibuprofen) help alleviate symptoms.
– **Hydration and Rest**: Maintaining hydration and getting adequate rest are crucial supportive measures.
### Asthma
#### Triggers
– **Allergens**: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold are common allergens that can trigger asthma.
– **Irritants**: Tobacco smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, and strong odors can provoke asthma symptoms.
– **Respiratory Infections**: Viral infections like the common cold or flu can exacerbate asthma.
– **Physical Activity**: Exercise-induced asthma is a condition where physical exertion triggers asthma symptoms.
– **Weather Conditions**: Cold air, high humidity, and sudden temperature changes can be triggers.
– **Stress and Emotions**: Strong emotional responses and stress can worsen asthma symptoms.
#### Treatment Options
– **Short-Acting Beta-Agonists (SABAs)**: Medications like albuterol provide quick relief of acute symptoms.
– **Inhaled Corticosteroids**: Fluticasone and budesonide are used for long-term control to reduce inflammation.
– **Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs)**: Salmeterol and formoterol help in maintaining long-term control.
– **Leukotriene Modifiers**: Montelukast helps prevent asthma symptoms by blocking leukotrienes.
– **Biologics**: Omalizumab and mepolizumab target specific pathways in severe asthma.
### Corticosteroids
#### Uses and Mechanism
– **Anti-inflammatory**: Corticosteroids like prednisone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators.
– **Immunosuppressive**: They suppress the immune system, useful in treating autoimmune diseases.
– **Routes of Administration**: Available in oral, intravenous, inhaled, and topical forms, depending on the condition being treated.
#### Side Effects
– **Short-term**: Insomnia, increased appetite, mood swings, and elevated blood sugar levels.
– **Long-term**: Osteoporosis, weight gain, hypertension, diabetes, and increased risk of infections.
### Chronic Bronchitis
#### Description
– **Definition**: Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by a productive cough lasting at least three months, recurring for two consecutive years.
– **Pathophysiology**: Persistent inflammation of the bronchi leads to increased mucus production, airway obstruction, and chronic cough.
#### Treatment Options
– **Bronchodilators**: Inhaled medications like ipratropium and salbutamol help relax and open the airways.
– **Inhaled Corticosteroids**: Fluticasone and budesonide reduce airway inflammation.
– **Combination Inhalers**: Medications like fluticasone-salmeterol combine a corticosteroid and a long-acting bronchodilator.
– **Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitors**: Roflumilast reduces inflammation and mucus production.
– **Oxygen Therapy**: Supplemental oxygen is prescribed for patients with severe hypoxemia.
– **Lifestyle Changes**: Smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and exercise improve overall lung function and quality of life.
### References
1. Barnes, P. J. (2018). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Effects beyond the lungs. *Lancet*, 391(10131), 1496-1508.
2. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). *Asthma management guidelines*. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma
3. Mayo Clinic. (2023). *Chronic bronchitis*. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-bronchitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355566
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