What is a potential complication of poorly managed severe asthma?

Severe asthma, if not managed properly, can lead to respiratory failure due to the significant airway obstruction that characterizes the condition. During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs. When these episodes are frequent or severe, they can result in inadequate ventilation and oxygenation, which can ultimately cause the respiratory system to fail.

Respiratory failure occurs when the lungs are unable to perform their gas exchange functions adequately, leading to elevated carbon dioxide levels and decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream. This can manifest as symptoms such as extreme shortness of breath, inability to speak in full sentences, and cyanosis, indicating a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to restore normal respiratory function.

While other options, such as pneumothorax or bronchiectasis, can occur in patients with long-standing respiratory issues, the direct and immediate consequence of poorly managed severe asthma is more closely linked to respiratory failure. This highlights the importance of effective asthma management, including the use of preventive medications and the ability to recognize and act upon worsening symptoms. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while also serious, typically develops due to long-term exposure to irritants and is distinct from the acute