Asthma Research Paper

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What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the bronchial smooth muscles. Inflammatory and structural changes of asthma in the airways lead to narrowing of the airway, edema as increased mucus production and bronchoconstriction. While bronchoconstriction plays a key role in asthma, more emphasis has recently been placed on the inflammatory response.

Asthma is caused by an overreaction to numerous triggers including allergens (pollens, mold spores, pet dander, and dust mites), irritants (perfumes, cleaning solutions, and air pollution), tobacco smoke, change in temperature, anxiety, and exercise.

The inflammation is caused by eosinophils, lymphocytes, mast cells, and phagocytes that invade the cell in …show more content…
The early phase occurs quite rapidly on exposure to an allergen, inducing mast cell degranulation, which causes mediator release and subsequent changes in airway function. Mediators released during the early phase and allergen-specific immune responses cause subsequent progression into the late-phase response. The late-phase response is often more severe and is characterized by the accumulation of mononuclear cells (monocytes and lymphocytes) as well as eosinophils. The cell populations that accumulates during the late-phase response are associated with prolonged airway dysfunction and damage. IgE, immunoglobulin E” (Lukacs …show more content…
The chronic buildup of mucus can lead to mucus plugs which further constrict airflow. If the inflammation is not treated or not managed correctly this leads to airway remodeling. Airway remodeling produces scar tissue and irreversible damage to the lungs.

What are some asthma symptoms?

The most common symptoms of asthma due to this inflammation are coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. With mild asthma, symptoms may be nonexistent. Symptoms such as coughing may be more present at night and cause frequent awakening. Expiration can be prolonged with a decreased inspiration due to increased effort to expel air with inflammation. Wheezing can occur on both inspiration and expiration, however, in severe exacerbations may be absent due to extremely limited airflow.

Asthma exacerbation is a life-threatening event. Signs of an asthma exacerbation include increased respiratory rate, increased heart rate, unable to speak in full sentences, and use of accessory muscles. Respiratory failure can occur and is marked by cyanosis, SaO2 < 90%, pulsus paradoxus, and hyperinflation due to trapped air and inability to
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