What is a common symptom of an asthma exacerbation?

Wheezing is a common symptom of an asthma exacerbation and occurs due to the narrowing of the airways, which leads to difficulty in breathing. During an asthma attack, the bronchial tubes become inflamed and constricted, producing a characteristic high-pitched whistling sound as air flows through these narrowed passages. This symptom typically indicates that the asthma is not well-controlled and may require medical intervention or adjustment of treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

Other symptoms associated with an asthma exacerbation can include coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and increased mucus production, all of which are linked to the underlying pathophysiology of asthma. In contrast to the other options, which do not directly relate to the respiratory issues characteristic of asthma, wheezing is a hallmark of the condition during flare-ups.