What is a common symptom of asthma?

Wheezing and coughing are hallmark symptoms of asthma, which is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. During an asthma attack, the airways become constricted, leading to difficulty in breathing and the characteristic wheezing sound as air moves through the tightened passages. Coughing often accompanies wheezing, serving as a reflex to clear the airways and can occur both during an asthma episode and in response to triggers such as allergens, exercise, or irritants.

In contrast, fever and chills are not typical of asthma and are more indicative of infections. Hyperventilation may occur in response to anxiety or panic, but it is not a primary symptom of asthma itself. Frothy sputum production is generally associated with other conditions such as pulmonary edema, rather than asthma. The presence of wheezing and coughing directly correlates with the pathophysiological processes involved in asthma, making them the most relevant symptoms of this respiratory condition.