Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing recurrent episodes of breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing. This article aims to elucidate the complexities of asthma, exploring its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management strategies.
Understanding Asthma:
- Inflammatory Nature: Asthma is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to increased sensitivity and reactivity. This inflammation results in the airways becoming narrow, making it difficult for individuals with asthma to breathe.
- Triggers: Various environmental and genetic factors can trigger asthma symptoms. Common triggers include allergens (pollen, dust mites, mold), respiratory infections, air pollutants, physical activity, and certain medications.
Symptoms of Asthma:
- Shortness of Breath: Individuals with asthma often experience episodes of shortness of breath, especially during physical activities or exposure to triggers.
- Wheezing: The narrowing of airways produces a characteristic wheezing sound during exhalation, indicating airflow obstruction.
- Chest Tightness: Asthma can cause a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest, contributing to discomfort.
- Coughing: Persistent coughing, particularly at night or in response to triggers, is a common symptom of asthma.
Diagnosis of Asthma:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Healthcare professionals gather information about an individual's medical history, symptoms, and conduct a physical examination to assess respiratory function.
- Lung Function Tests: Spirometry and peak flow tests measure the amount of air an individual can exhale forcibly, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of asthma.
- Allergy Testing: Identifying specific allergens through skin or blood tests can help determine if allergies contribute to asthma symptoms.
Nursing diagnosis for Asthma
- Impaired gas exchange related to Altered oxygen supply obstruction of airways by secretions, bronchospasm, air-trapping Alveoli destruction
- Ineffective airway clearance related to obstruction from narrowed lumen and thick mucus
- Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements related to Dyspnea, sputum production Medication side effects; anorexia, nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Ineffective breathing pattern
- Anxiety
- Deficient knowledge (treatment regimen, self-care, and discharge needs)
- Fear
Nursing Interventions for Asthma
- Evaluate respiratory rate/depth and breath sounds.
- Assist client to maintain a comfortable position.
- Keep environmental free from sources of allergen such as dust, smoke, and feather pillows to a minimum according to individual situation.
- Encourage/instruct in deep-breathing and directed coughing exercises
- monitor skin and mucous membrane color.
- Monitor vital signs
- Encourage adequate rest and limit activities to within client tolerance.
- Monitor and graph serial ABGs and pulse oximetry.
- Administer medications as indicated