Which of the following is a commonly observed symptom during an asthma attack?

• A. Respiratory distress
• B. Wheezing
• C. Hyperthermia
• D. Polyuria

Answer: (B)

When an asthma attack occurs, the airways become inflamed and the muscles around them tighten, narrowing the passages. As air is forced through these constricted bronchi, it creates a high-pitched whistling sound called a wheeze. This audible sound is a classic and commonly observed sign during an asthma flare and reflects the turbulent airflow through narrowed airways. While respiratory distress—such as rapid breathing or use of accessory muscles—can accompany an attack, wheezing is the most characteristic finding clinicians look for at the bedside. Fever (hyperthermia) and polyuria are not typical features of an asthma attack; fever points more to infection, and polyuria is unrelated to airway obstruction. Note that in very severe cases, the wheeze might diminish as airflow becomes severely limited, but the underlying process remains bronchoconstriction and inflammation.