Question

Harold, a 61-year-old male smoker, suffers from chronic bronchitis, which was diagnosed two years ago. At that time he was treated with antibiotics, told to stop smoking and given a prescription for albuterol. He attempted to give up smoking, but he says that, although he has cut back, he still smokes about half a pack a day. He has been faithful about seeing his doctor for follow-up visits every six months, and has occasionally required antibiotic therapy when his bronchitis flares up. On his most recent visit he reports that his dyspnea is getting worse, and he experiences wheezing whenever he does anything strenuous. His doctor notes a slight bluish tint to his lips and mucous membranes, as well as peripheral edema and some enlargement of the liver. He informs Harold that his chronic bronchitis is getting worse and he is beginning to experience symptoms of cor pulmonale.

Explain what your new treatment options if any would be and explain what you would do next. Be detailed in your respons

Answer 1

Cor pulmonale is a disease condition where there is enlargement of the right side of the heart and increasing the pressure in pulmonary artery due to which there is decrease in the volume of blood pumping. This may lead to shortness of breath ,tachycardia.

The following treatment can be given to the patient

• Diuretics :to remove fluid overload on the right ventricle and peripheral edema
• Corticosteroids:to prevent inflammation of the bronchial tube and enhance breathing
• Anti hypertensive: to treat high blood pressure as this is the main cause for cor pulmonale .Calcium channel blockers can control this high blood pressure.
• Anticoagulant to prevent clotting and enhancing easy blood supply
• Theophylline enhance breathing by controlling mucillary inflammation
• Oxygen therapy to treat hypoxia is the main treatment for it