Immunity
The primary immune response occurs when an antigen comes into contact with the immune system for the first time. The immune system has to learn to recognize the antigen and how to manufacture antibodies against it so that it eventually produces memory lymphocytes. For instance, in innate immunity, the body produces non-specific defense responses within hours or immediately an antigen appears on the body (Baxter, 2012). On the other hand, secondary immunity occurs when the immune system of the baby is exposed to the antigen for the second time (Kollmann et al., 2013). At this stage, an immunological memory has already been established and the immune system can start manufacturing antigens. Immunity is affected by a variety of factors such as natural exposure, vaccination, age, physical stress, nutrition, and age.
Passive immunity response is gotten through the transfer of immune substances from resistant individuals. An example of passive immunity is when antibodies in a mother’s breast milk give temporary immunity to the child for the diseases she has been exposed to (Kollmann et al., 2013). Since maternal immunity lasts for a short period, active immunity is provided through vaccination to prolong passive immunity in the baby. This type of immunity gotten through the vaccination mechanism is acquired immunity (Baxter, 2012). In this type of immunity, the antigen stimulates the production of antibodies against a specific antigen.
Pathophysiology of Asthma
Inflammation plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of Asthma. Asthma initiates increased secretion of mucus secretion due to the expansion of mucus-secreting glands. This process could lead to the development of thick mucus that could block the nasal airway. Besides, injury to the epithelium leads to the peeling of the epithelial layer which may adversely impair the airway making it hyperresponsive (Randolph, 2012).
Also, asthma leads to the loss of enzymes in charge of breaking down the inflammatory mediators. Without proper treatment, the impact of this disease could lead to complete airway remodeling by changing the cells and tissues in the lower respiratory tract. At times, these changes may be irreversible resulting in loss of lung function and reduced response to therapy (Randolph, 2012). The patient education that needs to be included related to this disorder is the management of asthma by patients because the medical complications are severe. This education includes the things one needs to avoid and treatment.
References
Baxter, D. (2012). Active and passive immunity, vaccine types, excipients, and licensing. Occupational Medicine, 57(8), 552-556. doi: 10.1093/occmed/kqm110
Kollmann, T., Levy, O., & Hanekom, W. (2013). Vaccine-induced immunity in early life. Vaccine, 31(21), 2481-2482. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.04.025
Randolph, C. (2012). Allergy and Asthma Connection—from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Asthma Magazine, 8(2), 24-26. doi: 10.1067/mas.2003.25