Asthma

• What is asthma?

  A common lung condition causing breathing difficulties
• At what age does asthma often start?

  Often starts in childhood
• Can asthma symptoms be completely cured?

  No, symptoms can be controlled but not cured
• What is a common symptom of asthma?

  Breathlessness
• What is another symptom of asthma?

  Wheezing
• What can trigger asthma symptoms?

  Exposure to tobacco smoke as a child
• What family history increases asthma risk?

  Family history of asthma or allergies
• What are some environmental causes of asthma?

  Infections, allergens, weather changes, exercise
• What are the main environmental causes of asthma?

  1. Infections of upper airways (colds, flu)
  2. Allergens (pollens, dust mites, animal fur)
  3. Weather conditions & sudden temperature changes
  4. Exercise
• What is spirometry used for in asthma monitoring?

  To measure lung function and capacity
• What is a common treatment for severe asthma symptoms?

  Nebuliser
• What do steroid inhalers do for asthma patients?

  Reduce swelling and mucus in airways
• What is one method to avoid asthma triggers?

  Avoiding known triggers
• What is the purpose of antibiotics in asthma treatment?

  To treat bacterial infections that worsen asthma
• How does exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy affect asthma risk?

  It increases the risk of asthma in children
• What is a common symptom of asthma related to breathing?

  Difficulty breathing
• What is a symptom of asthma that involves sound?

  Wheezing
• What is the significance of family history in asthma?

  It indicates a higher risk of developing asthma
• What role do upper airway infections play in asthma?

  They can trigger asthma symptoms
• How do weather conditions affect asthma?

  Sudden changes can trigger asthma attacks
• What is the role of sputum in asthma monitoring?

  It helps assess lung function and infection
• What is a disadvantage of using sputum for monitoring?

  Difficult to clean, leaves residue
• What is the purpose of using a stethoscope in asthma monitoring?

  To listen for chest noises and breathing patterns
• What is a common treatment for asthma besides nebulisers?

  Steroid inhalers
• How do antibiotics help asthma patients?

  They treat infections that can exacerbate asthma
• Why is it important to avoid known asthma triggers?

  To prevent asthma attacks and manage symptoms
• What does "occasional breathing difficulties" imply in asthma patients?

  It indicates that symptoms can vary in frequency
• What is the significance of "premature birth" in relation to asthma?

  It can increase the risk of developing asthma
• How does "birth weight" relate to asthma risk?

  Low birth weight can increase asthma risk