Bronchospasm
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Prashanth Saddala M.B.B.S.; Areej Tariq
Overview
Bronchospasm is a difficulty in breathing caused by a sudden constriction of the muscles in the walls of the bronchioles.
Pathophysiology
It is caused by the release (degranulation) of substances from mast cells or basophils under the influence of anaphylatoxins. The overactivity of the bronchioles' muscle is a result of exposure to a stimulus which under normal circumstances would cause little or no response. The resulting constriction and inflammation causes a narrowing of the airways and an increase in mucus production; this reduces the amount of oxygen that is available to the individual causing breathlessness, coughing and hypoxia.
Causes
Common Causes
- Allergens such as eggs, milk, peanuts, walnuts, tree and other nuts, fish, especially shellfish, soy and wheat; insect bites and stings, especially bee stings; and other medicines, especially penicillin and its derivatives.
- Anaphylaxis
- Asthma
- Beta-blockers
- Bronchitis
- Cold air [1]
- COPD
- Decongestants
- Endotracheal tube placement
- LRTI
- URTI
Causes by Organ System
Causes in Alphabetical Order
Treatment
Pharmacotherapy
Beta 2 agonists
Beta 2 adrenergic agonists are recommended for bronchospasm.
- Short acting (SABA)
- Long acting (LABA)
- Others
Muscarinic Acetylcholine receptor antagonist
Since the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, is known to decrease sympathetic response by slowing the heart rate and constricting the smooth muscle tissue; ongoing research and successful clinical trials have shown that agents such as diphenhydramine, atropine and Ipratropium bromide is known to be effective for treating asthma and COPD-related symptoms.
References
- ↑ Marsh, Alex; Gordon, David; Heslop, Pauline; Pantazis, Christina (2000). "Housing Deprivation and Health: A Longitudinal Analysis". Housing Studies. 15 (3): 411. doi:10.1080/02673030050009258.