During a typical asthma episode, which phase of breathing is more difficult?

In a typical asthma episode, exhalation is more difficult due to the pathophysiological changes that occur in the airways. During asthma attacks, the airways become inflamed and constricted, leading to increased resistance to airflow. This narrowing is particularly significant during exhalation because the act of breathing out relies on the passive recoil of the lungs and the airway resistance overcoming pressure inside.

As the bronchioles constrict and mucus may accumulate, it becomes challenging for the patient to expel air effectively. The result is a feeling of tightness in the chest and a sense of suffocation as it may feel like one cannot fully release the air from the lungs. In contrast, inhalation may not be as heavily impacted as the muscles involved in breathing in can still function adequately despite the airway obstruction.

Understanding this respiratory pattern helps both patients and healthcare providers recognize the severity of an asthma attack and manage it appropriately.