Which of the following conditions can lead to respiratory distress?

Respiratory distress occurs when an individual has difficulty breathing or inadequate oxygenation, which can be caused by various medical conditions. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness. During an asthma attack, these symptoms can significantly worsen, resulting in respiratory distress due to decreased airflow and oxygenation.

While other conditions such as anemia, cirrhosis, and hypertension affect overall health, they do not directly lead to respiratory distress in the same manner as asthma. For instance, anemia can lead to fatigue and weakness due to low hemoglobin levels, but it does not typically cause the immediate respiratory issues associated with asthma. Similarly, cirrhosis affects liver function and can lead to complications, but it primarily impacts the liver rather than directly causing breathing difficulties. Hypertension primarily concerns blood pressure and cardiovascular health without directly causing respiratory issues. Thus, asthma is the most direct cause of respiratory distress among the options provided.