Final answer:
Pregnant women with a viral upper airway infection can experience exacerbated dyspnea due to the increased respiratory minute volume and swelling of the respiratory mucosa.
Step-by-step explanation:
Women with a viral upper airway infection during pregnancy can develop abnormal breathing patterns due to the changes in the respiratory system. During pregnancy, respiratory minute volume increases, and the uterus presses on the diaphragm, sometimes leading to shortness of breath or dyspnea. The respiratory mucosa also swell, causing nasal congestion and nose bleeds. Such respiratory challenges, along with a viral infection, can exacerbate feelings of breathlessness and discomfort. Respiratory infections during pregnancy need careful management as they can also potentially lead to serious illness in newborns.