Medication such as albuterol (Ventolin) relieves respiratory distress primarily by:

Albuterol, commonly known as Ventolin, is a bronchodilator that primarily functions by relaxing the smooth muscle in the bronchioles. This action effectively widens the air passages in the lungs, making it easier for air to flow in and out, thus alleviating symptoms of respiratory distress such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. By targeting the beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle, albuterol facilitates bronchodilation, leading to improved airflow and enhanced oxygenation. This mechanism of action is critical in managing conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where airway obstruction is a prominent feature.

While increasing respiratory rate, reducing mucus production, or stimulating the central nervous system might be factors associated with respiratory distress, they are not the primary mechanisms by which albuterol operates. Its specific role in relaxing bronchial smooth muscle directly addresses the obstruction of airflow, which is why this choice is the most accurate in describing how albuterol relieves respiratory distress.