Assessment and Pathophysiology of Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that causes airway hyper responsiveness, mucosal edema, and mucus production. This inflammation ultimately leads to recurrent episodes of asthma symptoms: cough, chest tightness, wheezing, and dyspnea Asthma occurs in families, which suggests that it is an inherited disorder. Apparently, environmental factors (e.g., viral infection, allergens, and pollutants) interact with inherited factors to produce disease. Other inciting factors can include excitatory states (stress, laughing, crying), exercise, changes in temperature, and strong odors. The incidence of asthma has been increasing. It occurs across the life span, from the very young to the very old. It is a highly complex condition that can be a mild nuisance or a very serious, life-threatening condition. When people with asthma are exposed to extrinsic allergens and irritants, their airways become inflamed, producing shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing. This case study is exploring the case of Mrs. X , a 35-year-oldwoman, was referred to the clinic with recurrent episodes of shortness of breath. For assessing her present condition a comprehensive history and physical examination with particular focus on the respiratory system will be established. In addition the underlying pathophysiology of the present respiratory problems will be discussed with the support of current literature.