What is a common consequence of airflow obstruction due to asthma?

Airflow obstruction due to asthma commonly leads to hypoxemia, which is a low level of oxygen in the blood. When the airways become inflamed and narrowed, it impedes the ability of air to flow in and out of the lungs effectively. As a result, there is less oxygen available to be exchanged in the alveoli, leading to decreased oxygen levels in the blood. This is particularly critical during an asthma attack when the obstruction is more pronounced, resulting in a significant reduction in ventilation and oxygenation.

In contrast, increased oxygen saturation typically occurs with effective breathing and can be seen in well-controlled asthma management, while a decreased respiratory rate may be associated with other conditions or periods of relaxation. Enhanced lung capacity does not occur during an asthma episode; rather, airflow limitation directly hinders lung function. Hypoxemia is a direct consequence of the compromised air exchange that occurs during an asthma exacerbation.