DISCUSSION WEEK 4 REACTION

DISCUSSION WEEK 4 REACTION Order Description Asthma is chronic pulmonary disease that affects people of all ages. According to NHLBI in 2014, asthma is categorized as a reactive airway disorder and it typically begins during childhood years. The over-reactive nature of asthma bronchial linings, when triggered, causes a cascade of events that lead to the symptoms of this disease. Genetics and environmental stimuli play a role in asthma symptoms and exacerbations. If the tissue becomes over reactive when introduced to a particular stimulus, it leads to bronchospasm, or a contraction of muscles bronchial tube muscles that narrows the airway. In addition to chronic inflammation and bronchospasm, there is an increase in mucous production in the bronchial passages with triggered. Ultimately the combination of these responses produces a narrowing of the airway passages and reduces airflow and occasional hypoxemia. Symptoms experienced by these patients most often include coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea. Examples of irritant stimuli can include recent viral upper respiratory infection, inhaled chemicals, pollen, pet dander, exposure to cigarette smoke, and house hold dust. (Lippincot, Williams, & Wilkins, 2009). Treatment includes irritant avoidance, use of inhaled bronchodilators, corticosteroids. Behavioral health care interventions can assist in prevention and treatment of asthma symptoms. Take for example, an asthmatic patient with co-morbid anxiety or panic attacks. It has been shown that cognitive behavioral therapy is effective in reducing occurrence and severity of asthma related symptoms (Katon, W. J., et. al., 2004). I would also include breathing and relaxation techniques as well. Ultimately, an approach that integrates behavioral health care intervention and tradition care has been shown to improve patient outcomes. (2013). Pathophysiology made incredibly easy! 5th ed. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Katon, W.J., Richardson, L., Lozano, P., McCauley, E. The relationship of asthma and anxiety disorders. Psychosom Med. 2004;66:349�355. How Is Asthma Treated and Controlled? - NHLBI, NIH. (2014, August 4). Retrieved September 10, 2016, from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/asthma/treatment Reply Quote Email Author Select: All None