Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What is a hallmark of asthma that affects the airway?

1. Narrowing and obstruction due to inflammation

2. Immediate response to all environmental allergens

3. Excessive mucus production only during winter

4. Increased airway dilation

The correct answer is: Narrowing and obstruction due to inflammation

The hallmark of asthma that affects the airway is characterized by narrowing and obstruction due to inflammation. Asthma is primarily an inflammatory condition of the airways that leads to increased airway responsiveness to various stimuli. In response to triggers such as allergens, irritants, or exercise, the airway walls become inflamed, causing swelling and resulting in narrowing. This narrowing can lead to difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. The inflammation in asthma is often accompanied by other changes in the respiratory system, such as bronchoconstriction and increased mucus production, but it is the inflammation-induced narrowing that is particularly critical. This can result in obstruction that may be partially or completely reversible with treatment, such as bronchodilators or anti-inflammatory medications. In contrast, the other options address aspects that do not represent the core issues associated with asthma. An immediate response to all environmental allergens is not a hallmark of asthma, as not all individuals with asthma respond the same way to different allergens. Excessive mucus production is often a feature of asthma but is not restricted to winter nor is it the primary defining characteristic. Increased airway dilation does not occur in asthma; rather, bronchoconstriction and narrowing are the significant concerns in this condition.