Which symptom is commonly associated with an asthma attack?

Shortness of breath is a hallmark symptom associated with an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and constricted, leading to difficulty in breathing. This can cause a sensation of tightness in the chest and an increased effort to breathe. Individuals experiencing an asthma attack may also exhibit wheezing as they try to force air through narrowed airways.

The other options do not align with the symptoms of an asthma attack. Increased energy is not a typical experience; instead, individuals often feel fatigued or overwhelmed by their breathing difficulties. Enhanced lung capacity would be counterintuitive during an asthma attack, as the capacity is often reduced due to the obstruction of airflow. Additionally, a reduced heart rate is not characteristic of an asthma attack—in fact, many patients may experience an increased heart rate as a response to the stress and effort of trying to breathe. Understanding these characteristics is essential for recognizing and effectively responding to asthma attacks.