What vital signs are commonly noted in someone having an asthma exacerbation?

In the context of an asthma exacerbation, the physiological response of the body reflects the struggle for adequate oxygenation and the attempt to overcome airway obstruction. During an asthma attack, bronchoconstriction and inflammation in the airways lead to difficulty breathing, which in turn can cause the body to exhibit an increase in both heart rate and respiratory rate.

Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, occurs as the body's sympathetic nervous system is activated, compensating for decreased oxygen levels and increased work of breathing. Similarly, tachypnea, or increased respiratory rate, is a direct response to hypoxia and the need to improve gas exchange. These vital sign changes—tachycardia and tachypnea—are hallmark signs indicative of an asthma exacerbation, as the body works harder to secure oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.

Other vital sign changes associated with an asthma episode, such as hypoxia, may frequently be present, but they do not specifically characterize the vital signs listed in the selected option. Recognizing these patterns helps in the assessment of the severity of the exacerbation and guides appropriate interventions.