pathophysiology

pathophysiology:

-airway inflammation
-intermittent airflow obstruction
-bronchial hyperresponsivness


http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/296301-overview


In allergic (extrinsic) asthma, the most common form, the respiratory
crisis is triggered by allergies in pollen, mold, animal dander, food,
dust mites, or cockroaches. Exposure causes release of histamine,
interleukins, and several other inflamatory chemicals, which
triggers intense airway inflammation.

Nonallergic
(intrinsic) asthma is not caused by allergens but can be triggered by
infections, drugs, air pollutants, cold dry air, exercise, or emotions.

Within minutes, bronchospasm occurs,along with wheezing, coughing and
possible fatal suffocation.

6-8 hours later, interleukins attract eosinophils to the bronachial
tissue. The eosinophils secrete protiens that paralyze the cilia,
damage the epithelium, and scar and cause long term damage to the
lungs. The bronchioles also oedematize and get plugged with thick
stucky mucus.

Saladin, unity of form