What effect do histamines have on the smooth muscle surrounding the airways during an asthma attack?

Histamines play a significant role in the pathophysiology of asthma, particularly during an asthma attack. When histamines are released by the body, typically in response to an allergen or other triggers, they bind to specific receptors on the smooth muscle cells surrounding the airways. This interaction leads to bronchoconstriction, which is the narrowing of the airways due to the constriction of the smooth muscle. As a result, the air passages become smaller, making it more difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs, thereby contributing to the typical symptoms of asthma such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Understanding the role of histamines is crucial for asthma management, including recognizing triggers and the importance of antihistamines in certain contexts, although they are not the primary treatment for asthma attacks since bronchodilators are more directly effective in relieving bronchoconstriction.