Severe asthma

Q. In the most severe form of asthma wheezing may only be heard during:

a. End expiration

b. Throughout expiration

c. During inspiration

d. At beginning of expiration

Answer C

1. Wheezing, a musical, high-pitched, whistling sound produced by airflow turbulence, is one of the most common symptoms. In the mildest form, wheezing is only end expiratory.

2. As severity increases, the wheeze lasts throughout expiration. In a more severe asthmatic episode, wheezing is also present during inspiration.

3. During a most severe episode, wheezing may be absent because of the severe limitation of airflow associated with airway narrowing and respiratory muscle fatigue.