Reference no: EM132896616

Question 1: Explain the pathophysiology behind the signs and symptoms of COPD

Bronchitis and emphysema are both classified as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These chronic illnesses obstruct airflow (McCance & Huether, 2019). Because of the elevated mucus in the airway, COPD allows it to close. As a consequence of cilia dysfunction, mucus causes narrowing, which causes shortness of breath, coughing, and difficulty clearing secretions. The obstruction is caused by a narrowed airway, which makes it impossible for oxygen to reach the lungs and prevents CO2 from exiting the lungs, resulting in hypercapnia (Santus et al., 2020). Ventilation-perfusion imbalance is caused by hypercapnia and hypoxia.

Individuals with COPD develop symptoms such as barrel chest and clubbing of the fingers over time as a result of trapped CO2 (also known as air trapping). Distention of the alveoli occurs as a result of air trapping, which may lead to failure. Excessive work of breathing and puffing causes weight loss in some people, especially those with emphysema. Understanding and recognizing the signs and symptoms of COPD are critical for establishing care and management strategies.