Treatments for Respiratory Disorders
Based on Module 4: Lecture Materials & Resources and experience, please answer the following questions:
- Discuss triggers of asthma and treatment options
- Discuss corticosteroids
- Describe chronic bronchitis and treatment options
- Arcangelo, P. V., Peterson, M. A., Wilbur, V., & Reinhold, A. J. (2017).
- Chapter 25: Asthma
- Chapter 26: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Describe causes of Upper respiratory infections and drug therapy
Submission Instructions:
- Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in the current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources within the past 5 yrs.
- Each question must be answered individually as in bullet points.
Treatments for Respiratory Disorders
Triggers of Asthma and Treatment Options
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways that leads to bronchoconstriction, airway hyperresponsiveness, and mucus production. Various triggers can exacerbate asthma symptoms, including allergens (pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander), environmental irritants (smoke, pollution, strong odors), respiratory infections, physical activity, cold air, and stress (Arcangelo et al., 2017).
Treatment options for asthma are classified into quick-relief and long-term control medications. Quick-relief medications include short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) like albuterol, which provide immediate bronchodilation during an acute asthma attack. Long-term control medications aim to reduce airway inflammation and prevent exacerbations. These include inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) such as budesonide and fluticasone, leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast), and long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) like salmeterol, which are often combined with ICS for better symptom management. Biologic therapies such as monoclonal antibodies (e.g., omalizumab) are used for severe asthma cases unresponsive to conventional treatments (Global Initiative for Asthma [GINA], 2023).
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a cornerstone in the management of inflammatory respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These drugs function by reducing airway inflammation, decreasing mucus production, and preventing exacerbations.
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) such as beclomethasone and fluticasone are commonly prescribed for persistent asthma. They are preferred due to their targeted action and lower systemic side effects compared to systemic corticosteroids. Oral or systemic corticosteroids like prednisone and methylprednisolone are used for severe asthma exacerbations or COPD flare-ups but are generally prescribed for short-term use due to the risk of systemic side effects, including osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, and adrenal suppression (Arcangelo et al., 2017).
Chronic Bronchitis and Treatment Options
Chronic bronchitis, a subtype of COPD, is characterized by persistent mucus production and a chronic cough lasting at least three months per year for two consecutive years. The condition is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to lung irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and occupational dust or chemicals.
Treatment options focus on symptom management and preventing disease progression. First-line pharmacological therapy includes bronchodilators such as short-acting muscarinic antagonists (SAMAs) like ipratropium and long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) such as tiotropium. Beta-2 agonists, including SABAs and LABAs, help relax bronchial smooth muscles. Inhaled corticosteroids may be added in cases of frequent exacerbations. Pulmonary rehabilitation, smoking cessation, oxygen therapy (for severe cases), and vaccinations (influenza and pneumococcal) are also critical in managing chronic bronchitis (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease [GOLD], 2023).
Causes of Upper Respiratory Infections and Drug Therapy
Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are common infections affecting the nasal passages, throat, and sinuses. They are primarily caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses. Bacterial infections, including those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, are less common but can lead to complications such as sinusitis and otitis media.
Treatment for viral URIs is primarily supportive, including hydration, rest, nasal decongestants (e.g., oxymetazoline), antihistamines, and analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for symptom relief. Antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (for influenza) may be prescribed in certain cases. Bacterial URIs, such as streptococcal pharyngitis, require antibiotic therapy with agents like penicillin or amoxicillin. Corticosteroid nasal sprays, such as fluticasone, may be used for allergic rhinitis contributing to URI symptoms (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022).
References
Arcangelo, P. V., Peterson, M. A., Wilbur, V., & Reinhold, A. J. (2017). Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice: A Practical Approach (4th ed.). F.A. Davis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Common colds: Protect yourself and others. https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html
Global Initiative for Asthma. (2023). Global strategy for asthma management and prevention. https://ginasthma.org/gina-reports/
Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. (2023). Global strategy for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of COPD. https://goldcopd.org/