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
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Bronchospasm is a difficulty in breathing caused by a sudden constriction of the muscles in the walls of the bronchioles.
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Historical Perspective
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Classification
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Pathophysiology
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Pathophysiology
Bronchospasm 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.

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Causes
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
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
- Terconazole
- Cold air [1]
- COPD
- Decongestants
- Endotracheal tube placement
- LRTI
- URTI
Causes by Organ System
Causes in Alphabetical Order
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.
Differentiating Bronchospasm from other Diseases
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Epidemiology and Demographics
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Risk Factors
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Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
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Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | Chest X Ray | CT | MRI | Other Imaging Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Treatment
Medical Therapy | Surgery | Primary Prevention | Secondary Prevention | Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy | Future or Investigational Therapies
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