1. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF BRONCHIAL ASTHMA
Precipitating Factors Predisposing Factors
Environmental Factors Genetics
Atmospheric Pollutants Race
Allergens Age
Exercise, Stress on emotional Gender
upset, Chemicals,
Medications
IgE Stimulants
Mast Cell Degranulation
Asthma Attack
Altered immunologic Increased airway Increased lung Impaired mucocilary Altered O2-CO2
response resistance compliance function exchange
Chemical mediators Mucus secretion, Lungs become Increase mucus Increase airway
are released inflammation, hyperinflated production resistance
bronchospasm
Histamine,
Prostaglandins,
Bradykinins, etc

2. SPASM S/S: Slowed mucus Respiratory muscle works
clearance harder
Audible expiratory
& inspiratory
Accessory muscle Increased water loss Muscle fatigue and
breathing from mucus exhaustion
Nasal flaring
Tachypnea
Tachycardia Mucus becomes Respiratory Alkalosis
increasingly viscous
S/S:
Wheezing
Paroxysmal dyspnea
Cough Production

3. Without medical With Medical interventions
interventions
Individual compensates O2 Therapy
without increased RR
Respiratory alkalosis Medications: Inhaled
steroid, beta 2 adrenergic
agents, bronchodilators
Hypoxemia V
Opens the airway GOOD PROGNOSIS
Hypoventilation
Deep breathing and Health teachings
coughing exercise
Increase Fluid Intake
Respiratory acidosis Elevate HOB
Coughing up thick Limit exposure to
tenacious sputum allergens
Minimize strenuous
Severe hypoxemia
Adequate rest activities
Death
BAD PROGNOSIS