Obstructive Lung Disorders

Question 1

What are obstructive lung disorders characterised by?

Answer 1

Reduction in airflow.

Question 2

What are some examples of obstructive lung disorders?

Answer 2

• COPD
• Asthma
• Bronchiectasis

Question 3

What happens to the different lung volumes in obstructive lung disorders?

Answer 3

Decreased:
- Vital Capacity
- Inspiratory Reserve Volume
- Expiratory Reserve Volume

Increased:
- Residual Volume
- Functional Residual Capacity
- Total Lung Capacity

Question 4

Why does airflow obstruction occur?

Answer 4

Due to a combination of damage to the airways and also to lung parenchyma (e.g. alveoli).
- Damage is the result of chronic inflammation that differs to that seen in asthma.