1. Give your own definition of COPD

COPD, which stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, is a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult, the lung disease that make up COPD can include the most common ones which are emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

2. Briefly describe the proposed aetiology and pathophysiology of chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

The aetiology of chronic bronchitis is non-specific but it is characterized by an increase in mucus production and a decrease in mucosal clearance as well as frequent bacterial respiratory infections. The pathophysiology of chronic bronchitis is structural changes in the bronchial walls.

The aetiology of emphysema is smoking and irritants. The pathophysiology of emphysema is that the alveoli in the lungs are damaged, the inner walls of the alveoli can weaken and rupture.

3. Which types of therapy are included in the treatment of a COPD patient?

Anticholinergics, which are the 1^st line treatment eg; Ipratropium, tiotropium. You can also add β2 stimulants or slow release theophylline which have broncho dilatory effects, corticosteroid therapy is also helpful, oxygen therapy can also be added.

4. Why is ipratropium more effective in the treatment of chronic bronchitis than in the treatment of bronchial asthma?

Ipratropium is a M₃ antagonist and it is more effective in treating chronic bronchitis because it interrupts vagally mediated bronchoconstriction, it is indicated for maintenance therapy in stable chronic bronchitis. In terms of bronchial asthma it is not the first option because of its delayed onset of action.

5. In which way do the skeletal muscle effects of theophylline have advantages in the treatment of COPD?

Theophylline strengthens the contractions of diaphragm skeletal muscles which in turn improves ventilation response, reduces hypoxia and dyspnea in COPD patients.

6. What is the role of oxygen therapy in COPD?

When not enough air is available in the tissue to sustain bodily functions, oxygen therapy can be used to deliver the oxygen needed.