What effect does an increase in bronchial glands have?

The increase in bronchial glands leads to a greater production of mucus and other secretions in the airways. Bronchial glands play a crucial role in maintaining airway integrity by producing mucus that helps trap inhaled particles and pathogens, thus facilitating their clearance from the lungs. When these glands are stimulated or increased in number, the output of secretions rises, which can be a response to various stimuli such as allergens, irritants, or infections. This increase in secretion is often observed in conditions like asthma, where an overproduction of mucus can contribute to airway obstruction and difficulty in breathing. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the physiological response where more bronchial glands correspond to higher secretion production, aiding in the understanding of asthma pathophysiology and the body's attempt to protect itself against irritants.