Which condition is characterized by expiratory wheezing and requires bronchodilation therapy?

Expiratory wheezing is a hallmark sign of asthma, which arises due to the narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in expelling air from the lungs. In asthma, this narrowing is typically caused by bronchoconstriction, airway inflammation, and mucus production, all of which contribute to the characteristic wheezing sound during expiration.

Bronchodilation therapy is the cornerstone of asthma management, as it works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways, thereby increasing airflow and alleviating the symptoms associated with wheezing. Medications such as short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol) provide rapid relief from bronchoconstriction, making them essential for treating acute asthma exacerbations or managing chronic symptoms.

While other conditions like bronchitis can also cause wheezing due to airway inflammation and mucus buildup, asthma is distinct in its pattern of symptoms and the specific treatment response to bronchodilators. Pneumonia typically presents with other signs like fever and productive cough, while congestive heart failure is more associated with symptoms like dyspnea and fluid overload rather than isolated expiratory wheezing. Thus, asthma is rightly recognized for its characteristic expiratory wheezing and its specific need for bronchodilation therapy.