Asthma

🚨 Symptoms

Wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, cough (especially at night/early morning), triggered by allergens/exercise/cold air

🔍 Causes

Airway inflammation, bronchial hyperreactivity, genetic predisposition, triggers: allergens, cold air, exercise, stress, respiratory infections

💊 Treatment

Inhalers: relievers (salbutamol - blue), preventers (corticosteroids - brown), combination inhalers; leukotriene antagonists; oral steroids for acute attacks

📝 Nursing Care

Teach correct inhaler technique, develop action plan, identify triggers, monitor peak flow, educate on when to seek emergency care

Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.