1. Give your own definition of COPD.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) is a disease where the airway is constricted(bronchial constriction) or there is mucus blocking the airway. This makes it difficult to breathe. Common conditions are emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma.

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

Chronic bronchitis is an inflammatory disease that flares up. It happens due to increased mucus production and decreased mucus clearance. Irritants that are inhaled can also cause inflammation. Infections in the airway occur often. 

Emphysema is where the alveoli's are damaged due to smoking and other irritants. Old air cannot get out and new air cannot get in. It is difficult to breath. 

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

- stop smoking

- rehydration and steam can dilute mucus

- bronchodilators can open airways

- hypoxia(regular O2 inhalation)

- first line drugs used are anticholinergic drugs such as tiotropium or ipratropium that will inhibit bronchoconstriction. 

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

Ipratropium - short acting anticholinergic drug

                       - bronchial smooth muscles relax, lead to bronchodilation

                       - decrease mucus secretion(chronic bronchitis)

B2-agonist are first line drugs for asthma, and anticholinergic drugs are only used when a tolerance against b2-agonists have developed.

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

Theophylline increases the skeletal muscle strength of the diaphragm. Ventilation is increased and therefore a higher O2 level is achieved. 

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

Oxygen therapy is done when a patient cannot breath due to a constructive airway. This will lead to lack of enough oxygen. Oxygen therapy is done to give the patient the necessary oxygen needed to survive.