4. Explain why asthma exacerbations and other obstructive lung diseases that make it difficult for air to move into and out of the lungs can be exhausting for the sufferer. (Note: this goes beyond the fact that the sufferer is oxygen deficient and that often the problem happens at night. You need to discuss the mechanical strain that this places on the body due to the requirements to maintain airflow to and from the lungs.)

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the bronchi. It is caused by an erroneous hypersensitive immune response, which causes problems with the lungs, such as inflammation and especially bronchoconstriction, which makes it difficult to breathe in and out. Thick mucus is formed in the bronchi. The mucosal response is caused by inflammation caused by allergens or microbes (viruses, bacteria), prolonged irritation triggered by physical exertion or by unknown factors. For example, animal dust, pollen, dust mites, certain foods, cold air, exercise and stress have been found to trigger an asthma attack.  

Six percent of the adult population suffers from asthma, but a significant proportion of asthma is mild and does not require daily treatment. However, a sudden attack may require hospitalization.

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