In terms of lung function, what would a decreased Forced Expiratory Volume indicate?

A decreased Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV) indicates an obstruction in the airways. FEV measures how much air a person can forcibly exhale in the first second of a breath. When there is an obstruction, such as inflammation, mucus buildup, or bronchoconstriction, the airflow is restricted, leading to a lower volume of air expelled in that initial second.

In conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other obstructive lung diseases, the airways become narrowed, causing this decreased FEV. As a result, the person may struggle to exhale forcefully and completely, which is reflected in the lower measurement.

Improved lung capacity, normal lung function, and increased lung volume would typically correlate with healthier lung function, characterized by a higher FEV. Thus, the clear association between reduced FEV and obstructive airway issues makes this the correct choice in understanding lung function implications.