Complete the passage by filling in the blanks with the most appropriate words.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, which occur when the airways become inflamed and constricted. The exact cause of asthma remains unclear, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain triggers, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and air pollution, can A asthma symptoms, making it difficult for sufferers to breathe.
Managing asthma involves both preventative and rescue measures. Medications such as inhalers are commonly used to reduce inflammation and open the airways. However, these medications alone are not enough. It is important for individuals with asthma to identify their B triggers and avoid them whenever possible. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy diet can help strengthen the immune system and improve lung function.
Fill in blank (B) with the appropriate word.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
known
Explanation
The correct word for blank (B) is "known." The sentence states that individuals must identify their triggers and avoid them. Logically, you can only actively avoid things that you have already identified and are known to you.
The other choices are incorrect. Unknown contradicts the instruction to identify and avoid them. Immediate doesn't fit the context of general trigger identification. Knownly is grammatically incorrect because it is an adverb, whereas the sentence requires an adjective to modify the noun "triggers."
(Note: The provided answer key listing option 3 is a typographical error in the source paper, as "unknown triggers" directly contradicts the phrase "identify... and avoid them." Option 2, "known," is the textually accurate answer).
Key Point
To successfully fill in blanks in a medical context, look at the required action. If the action is to "avoid" a specific hazard, that hazard must be a known factor rather than an unknown or unidentifiable one.