What physiological condition is commonly caused by asthma?

Asthma commonly results in respiratory acidosis due to the obstruction of airflow that occurs during an acute asthma attack. When a patient experiences an asthma exacerbation, the airways constrict and become inflamed, leading to difficulty in exhaling carbon dioxide effectively. As carbon dioxide accumulates in the bloodstream, it increases the concentration of carbonic acid, which subsequently lowers the blood pH and results in respiratory acidosis.

This condition can be exacerbated by hypoventilation, which further limits the body's ability to expel carbon dioxide. Recognizing this physiological response is crucial for critical care paramedics, as it informs both assessment and treatment strategies during an asthma emergency.