Signs & Symptoms Of Asthma Flashcards

A patient describes chest tightness that is worse in the morning and improves throughout the day. Which asthma symptom pattern does this represent?

Answer: Diurnal variation in symptoms

Diurnal variation with morning worsening reflects circadian changes in airway tone and inflammation that are characteristic of asthma.

Which of the following is a symptom of hyperinflation during a severe asthma episode?

Answer: Barrel chest appearance

Air trapping during severe asthma causes lung hyperinflation, resulting in a barrel chest with increased anteroposterior diameter.

A child with asthma complains of persistent nighttime cough without wheezing. The MOST likely explanation is:

Answer: Cough-variant asthma where cough is the predominant symptom

Cough-variant asthma presents with chronic cough as the primary or sole symptom, often worse at night, without typical wheezing.

During spirometry, which finding is MOST consistent with asthma?

Answer: Decreased FEV1 with low FEV1/FVC ratio that improves ≥12% after bronchodilator

A reduced FEV1/FVC ratio (obstructive pattern) that improves ≥12% and ≥200 mL after bronchodilator administration confirms reversible airflow obstruction consistent with asthma.

Which symptom is MOST likely to suggest allergic (atopic) asthma rather than non-allergic asthma?

Answer: Symptoms associated with seasonal pollen exposure and other allergic conditions

Allergic asthma is associated with sensitization to allergens, often occurring alongside other atopic conditions such as allergic rhinitis and eczema, with seasonal patterns.

Which sign of accessory muscle use is commonly observed in adults during moderate asthma exacerbations?

Answer: Sternocleidomastoid and scalene muscle activation

During moderate to severe asthma, sternocleidomastoid and scalene muscles are recruited to assist with breathing due to increased airway resistance.

A patient's peak expiratory flow (PEF) is 55% of their personal best during an acute asthma episode. This indicates:

Answer: Moderate-to-severe exacerbation requiring urgent treatment

A PEF of 40–69% of personal best indicates a moderate-to-severe exacerbation requiring prompt treatment intensification per asthma action plans.