monitoring and treatment

• spirometry

  measures breathing capacity of the lungs, measures volume of air expired in total and the force of the expiration in the first second of breathing out
• spirometry

  individual has clip placed on their nose and has to blow into a mouthpiece having inhaled, and then repeat this at least three times, test lasts around 30-90 minutes
• MRI and CT scans

  scans can provide high resolution detailed images of the chest and can be repeated over time to monitor changes in condition
• CT scans

  high resolution CT scan is the most sensitive method of detecting emphysema
• peak flow meters

  used to measure the rate of exhalation
• physiotherapy

  used to help restore or improve movement, mobility or function of the body. it consists of exercises, manipulation and massage techniques that can be for specific parts of the body or for movement, or lungs and breathing
• physiotherapy

  used for COPD and massage improves quality of life for those with long-term conditions by reducing anxiety levels and improving sleep quality
• peak flow meters

  for asthma, measurements are taken regularly over time and compared with norms to indicate dilation/constriction of airways
• inhalers (asthma) blue

  preventative inhalers, used regularly to reduce inflammation and sensitivity of airways
• inhalers brown/red

  muscle relaxants for immediate relief of symptoms
• inhalers

  both types may be used with spacer device, gets drugs deper
• nebulisers

  may be required if constriction is too great, as these get drugs deeper into lungs
• medication

  antibiotics treat infections, corticosteroids, steroid treatments to relieve symptoms; anti-inflammatory medication reduces swelling and inflammation
• identification of triggers

  if asthma caused by allergens, treatment may involve tests to identify triggers and then de-sensitising injections can be given
• oxygen therapy (COPD)


  pulmonary rehabilitation: special programme of exercise and education
• ambulatory oxygen therapy

  use of portable oxygen when walking or other activity
• long term oxygen therapy

  use of oxygen at home from a portable oxygen tank. taken through a mask or nasal tubes, should be used 16 hours a day
• surgery

  remove damaged section of lung, or lung transplant, only suitable when symptoms not controlled by medication