What is a typical result of airway resistance in individuals with asthma?

• A. Improved ventilation
• B. Increased coughing
• C. Decreased lung compliance
• D. Enhanced diffusion capacity

Answer: (B)

Airway resistance refers to the obstruction or narrowing of the airways which can lead to difficulty in breathing. In individuals with asthma, the inflammation and constriction of the airways increase resistance, resulting in various symptoms, including increased coughing. This cough is often a reflex response to irritants and can be exacerbated by the sensitivity of the airways in asthmatic individuals. When airways are constricted, it becomes harder to expel air, leading to the production of mucus and further irritation; therefore, coughing acts as a mechanism to clear these obstructions.

The other outcomes listed, such as improved ventilation or enhanced diffusion capacity, are not characteristics associated with increased airway resistance in asthma. Typically, airway resistance reduces effective ventilation, as the airflow is obstructed and less effective gas exchange occurs. Decreased lung compliance can occur in some conditions but is not a direct result of increased airway resistance specifically related to asthma. Therefore, increased coughing is the most typical and directly associated response stemming from airway resistance in individuals with asthma.