Definition and Classification of Obstructive Airway Diseases

Pathophysiology and Mechanisms of Airway Obstruction

Obstructive airway diseases (OADs) refer to a group of chronic respiratory conditions characterized by airflow limitation due to inflammation, mucus production, and structural changes in the airways...

Types of Obstructive Airway Diseases

• Asthma: A chronic inflammatory disease causing reversible airway obstruction due to bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive disease characterized by irreversible airflow limitation.
• Bronchiectasis: Persistent dilation of the bronchi leading to mucus accumulation and frequent infections.

Mechanisms of Airway Obstruction

• Inflammatory response leading to airway narrowing.
• Excessive mucus secretion obstructing airflow.
• Airway remodeling affecting lung function over time.

Clinical Manifestations

Common symptoms include wheezing, dyspnea, chronic cough, and sputum production...

Management and Treatment Strategies

Management typically involves bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and lifestyle modifications...