Final answer:
Asthma attacks can result in acute ventilatory failure due to increased airway resistance. Inflammation and bronchoconstriction of the airways obstruct the flow of air, making it difficult to exhale properly. Triggers like allergens and exercise can contribute to ventilatory failure in asthma patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in exhaling air from the lungs. In cases of acute ventilatory failure in patients with asthma, the cause is typically an increase in airway resistance. This happens due to the narrowing or constriction of the bronchioles, which obstructs the flow of air and makes breathing more challenging.
During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchioles contract, causing them to narrow. This bronchoconstriction restricts the airflow and leads to ventilatory failure, making it difficult for the patient to exhale properly. It can also result in a reduced amount of oxygen reaching the alveoli for gas exchange.
Factors that can trigger acute ventilatory failure in asthma patients include exposure to allergens, environmental irritants, cold air, stress, and exercise. Prompt medical intervention and the use of bronchodilator medications are crucial in managing acute ventilatory failure and preventing further complications.