Question

When a client with a history of asthma takes a walk outside on a windy day with high pollen counts, she may experience an asthma attack, resulting in an increase in respiration rate and wheezing. The body’s response is likely related to which pathophysiologic principle?

Answer 1

Answer:

Option C, Parasympathetic nervous system stimulation resulting in airway constriction

Explanation:

Complete Question

When a client with a history of asthma takes a walk outside on a windy day with high pollen counts, she may experience an asthma attack, resulting in an increase in respiration rate and wheezing. The body's response is likely related to which pathophysiological principle?

Select one:

a. Influx of macrophages to wall of the pollen, thereby stopping the attack

b. Release of catecholamines causing blood vessel constriction

c. Parasympathetic nervous system stimulation resulting in airway constriction

d. Inhibition of glandular secretions, which causes build up of mucus in the lungs

Solution

The parasympathetic nervous system consists of cranial and sacral spinal nerves. It is responsible for doing the work of sympathetic system thereby decreasing the rate of respiration and heart. During windy climate when pollen grains are in excess, the rate of respiration needs to be higher in order to get sufficient supply of oxygen. But due to activation of parasympathetic nervous system the body tries to preserve its energy by decreasing the rate of various bodily functions and  

Hence, option C is correct