• COPD definition

It is a chronic inflammatory lung disease, which causes obstruction of airflow to and from the lungs, causing oxygen and gas exchange shortages.

• Aetiology & pathophysiology

AETIOLOGY: COPD is mainly caused by damage to the lung walls. This then leads to a persistent bronchodilation. Triggers include regular smoking or oxidative stress within the lungs. 

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY: This is know for thee chronic inflammation seen in and affecting the airways and pulmonary vasculature. Repeated injury and repair leads to structural and physiological changes.

• Therapy types for COPD

anticholinergic drugs, B2-sympathomimmetics, Corticosteroids, oxygen therapy

• Ipratropium superiority in COPD treatment

Ipratropium has a superior effect in COPD rather than Asthmatic cases for this drug is a n anti-cholinergic drug, which supresses the  Vasoconstricting actions of the parasympathetic nervous system. The PNS has a larger  role in COPD than in asthma which react better to direct stimulation of the B2 receptors than by indirect blockade of the muscarinic receptors via Ipratropium.

• Theophylline effects in COPD treatment

Theophylline's skeletal muscle effects prove beneficial as it improves the efficacy of the diaphragm, meaning that better inspiration and exhalation can occur and an  improved gas exchange will be seen.

• Oxygen therapy role

Due to the persistent bronchodilation seen in COPD a shortage of gas exchange occurs. Thus an increase in oxygen levels provided to the patient will increase the amount of O2 inhaled even with the bronchodilation seen. Improving the oxygen intake of the patient and improving quality oflife and  the symptoms.