What Is Bronchiolar Constriction?

Overview. Bronchoconstriction is a condition in which the smooth muscles of the bronchus contracts. The bronchus is the pathway that moves air to and from your lungs. This muscle contraction causes the bronchus to narrow and restrict the amount of air passing into and out of your lungs.

What happens when your bronchioles constrict?

During an asthma attack smooth muscles located in the bronchioles of the lung constrict and decrease the flow of air in the airways. The amount of air flow can further be decreased by inflammation or excess mucus secretion.

What causes bronchioles constriction?

Parasympathetic stimulation causes bronchoconstriction while sympathetic stimulation causes bronchodilation. During an asthma attack, the muscles that encircle the airway tighten or constrict, limiting the flow of air to and from the lungs. The airway may also become further inflamed and plugged with mucus.