What characterizes the pathophysiology of asthma?

The pathophysiology of asthma is characterized primarily by airway inflammation and obstruction. In asthma, the airways become hyper-responsive to various stimuli such as allergens, irritants, and respiratory infections. This hyper-responsiveness leads to inflammation of the airways, which is marked by an increase in inflammatory cells, including eosinophils and mast cells.

As the inflammation progresses, the airway walls thicken and mucus production increases, resulting in the narrowing of the airways. This narrowing, or obstruction, makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, which is responsible for the characteristic wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath experienced during an asthma attack.

In contrast, options that suggest a decreased respiratory rate, increased lung capacity, or enhanced pulmonary function do not align with the realities of asthma. In fact, during an asthma exacerbation, the respiratory rate often increases as the body attempts to compensate for the obstruction and improve oxygen intake. Thus, understanding the implications of airway inflammation and obstruction is crucial for managing and treating asthma effectively.