What is albuterol and ipratropium inhaler, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Albuterol/ipratropium is a combination product consisting of two bronchodilators, albuterol (Proventil; Ventolin) and ipratropium (Atrovent) that is used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (bronchitis and emphysema) when there is evidence of spasm (narrowing) of the airways (bronchi). Bronchodilators...
What is the treatment for asthmatic bronchitis? Treatment for asthmatic bronchitis may involve lifestyle changes and medication. Asthmatic bronchitis refers to inflammation of the bronchial tubes carrying air inside the lungs (bronchitis) that occurs because of asthma (a medical condition in which the airways become swollen and narrowed and may produce excess mucus). Although there...
What is the peak expiratory flow rate measurement test? Peak expiratory flow rate measures lung strength using a handheld device, usually to diagnose or monitor asthma. A peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is also called peak expiratory flow. It is a simple test that measures a person’s maximum speed of expiration/exhalation. It helps assess the...
What is anemic hypoxia? Anemic hypoxia is a blood defect that occurs when the blood’s ability to carry oxygen decreases. Causes include altitude sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, different types of anemia, hemorrhages, and hopoventialtion. One of the primary functions of your cardiorespiratory system is to ensure that all your body parts receive oxygen. Hypoxia is...
What is asthma? There is no cure for asthma, however, asthma symptoms can be managed by lifestyle modifications and treatment. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways (bronchi). Bronchi generally allow for the passage of air in and out of the lungs. In asthma, these airways develop hypersensitivity, inflammation, and narrowing. This causes...
What is oximetry? Oximetry is a procedure for measuring the concentration of oxygen in the blood. The test is used in the evaluation of various medical conditions that affect the function of the heart and lungs. How is oximetry done? This is done using an oximeter, a photoelectric device specially designed for this purpose. A...
Introduction An asthma nebulizer, also known as a breathing machine, changes asthma medication from a liquid to a mist, so that it can be more easily inhaled into the lungs. Home nebulizer therapy is particularly effective in delivering asthma medications to infants and small children and to anyone who is unable to use asthma inhalers...
Asthma complexities facts Symptoms of asthma include cough, rapid breathing, fatigue, sighing, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can mimic other illnesses. Asthma can be mimicked by other conditions, such as heart failure, bronchitis, emphysema, bronchiectasis, bronchial obstruction, vocal-cord dysfunction, and hypersensitivity reactions. Exercise is a common trigger for asthma and may cause...
Asthma introduction People with asthma should discuss the pros and cons of over-the-counter epinephrine inhalers with their doctor. Asthma is a disease in which there is a brief, temporary narrowing of the airways in the lungs, referred to as bronchospasm. This is only part of the picture. The main problem in asthma involves inflammation and...
What is asthma in children? Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways, characterized by recurrent, reversible, airway obstruction. Airway inflammation leads to airway hyperreactivity, which causes the airways to narrow in response to various stimuli, including allergens, exercise, and cold air. How common is asthma in children? Asthma is the most common chronic...