obstruction of upper airway, causes, signs and symptoms, diagnostic evaluation, treatment, prevention, epistaxis definition, causes, symptoms, diagnostic evaluation, management,

1. RESPIRATORY DISORDER
(OBSTRUCTION OF UPPER AIRWAY
&EPISTAXIS)
BY DOLISHA WARBI

2. OBSTRUCTION OF UPPER AIRWAY
• Upper airway obstruction refers to a condition where there is a partial or complete
blockage in the passage through which air flows from the nose and mouth to the
lungs.
Causes of Upper Airway Obstruction:
1.Foreign Body: Inhaled objects, such as food, small toys, or other items, can block
the airway.
2.Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions can cause swelling of the airway,
known as angioedema, leading to obstruction.
3.Infections: Infections like croup (common in children) or epiglottitis can cause
inflammation and swelling in the upper airway.
4.Trauma: Injury to the neck or face can result in swelling or damage to the
structures in the upper airway.
5.Tumors: Growths or tumors in the throat or neck can cause obstruction.
6.Anatomical Abnormalities: Congenital or acquired abnormalities in the airway
structure may lead to obstruction

3. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:
• Cyanosis.
• Choking.
• Confusion.
• Difficulty in breathing.
• Gasping for air.
• Panic.
• Wheezing, crowing, whistling.
• Unusual breathing noises.
• Changes in consciousness.
• Poor expansion of chest.
• Tachypnoea.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION:
o H/C.
o P/E.
o Bronchoscopy.
o Laryngoscopy.
o X-ray
o Symptomatic finding.

4. Treatment:
1.Heimlich Maneuver (for Foreign Body): In cases where a foreign object is
causing the obstruction, the Heimlich maneuver may be performed to dislodge the
object.
2.Emergency Medical Assistance: Seek immediate medical attention for any signs
of severe airway obstruction.
3.Epinephrine (for Allergic Reactions): In cases of severe allergic reactions causing
angioedema, epinephrine may be administered.
4.Intubation or Tracheostomy: In severe cases where the airway is completely
blocked, healthcare professionals may need to insert a tube through the mouth
(intubation) or create a surgical airway in the neck (tracheostomy) to ensure a clear
passage for air.
5.Corticosteroids and Antibiotics: If the obstruction is due to infection or
inflammation, medications like corticosteroids and antibiotics may be prescribed.
Drugs name - dexamethasone, 1.0 to 1.5 mg/kg, Flunisolide, Theophylline,
Erythromycin, Amoxicillin, azithromycin (Zithromax), penicillin etc.

6. PREVENTION:
ØAvoid smoking.
ØEats small bites of food and eat slowly.
ØChew thoroughly before Swallowing.
ØSupervised children during eating.
ØVisit doctor regularly in cases of having any respiratory disorder.

7. EPISTAXIS
qEpistaxis refers to bleeding from the nose, commonly known as a nosebleed. It is a common
condition that can range from a minor annoyance to a potentially serious medical issue.
Definition:
Epistaxis: Bleeding from the nose.
Causes:
• Trauma: Injury to the nose, such as a blow or the insertion of a foreign object.
• Dry or Irritated Nasal Passages: Dry air, nasal allergies, or irritants can lead to the development
of crusts within the nose, making it more susceptible to bleeding.
• Nasal Infections: Infections, especially if associated with inflammation, can contribute to
nosebleeds.
• Nasal Deformities: Structural abnormalities in the nasal passages may increase the risk of
bleeding.
• Blood Disorders: Conditions such as hemophilia or von Willebrand disease can affect blood
clotting and contribute to nosebleeds.
• Medications: Certain medications, like blood thinners, can increase the likelihood of bleeding.

8. Symptoms:
1. Bleeding from the Nose: This is the primary symptom of epistaxis.
2. Blood may flow out through the nostrils or down the back of the throat.
3. May be accompanied by pain, difficulty breathing, or a feeling of pressure in the nose.
Diagnostic Evaluation:
1. Clinical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess the patient's medical history and conduct a
physical examination.
2. Nasal Endoscopy: In some cases, a small flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) may be
used to examine the nasal passages.
3. Blood Tests: If an underlying medical condition is suspected, blood tests may be ordered to evaluate
the clotting function.

9. Management:
• First Aid:
• Tilt the head forward to prevent blood from flowing down the throat.
• Pinch the nostrils together and breathe through the mouth.
• Apply an ice pack to the bridge of the nose.
• Topical Agents: Nasal sprays or gels containing vasoconstrictors or clotting
agents may be used to stop bleeding.
• Cauterization: Sealing the bleeding blood vessels using heat or chemicals.
• Nasal Packing: Placing gauze or an inflatable balloon in the nasal cavity to
apply pressure and stop bleeding.
• Surgical Intervention: In severe or recurrent cases, surgical procedures may
be considered to address underlying issues.