Which of the following is a common symptom of anaphylaxis?

Which of the following is a common symptom of anaphylaxis?

• A. Fever
• B. Rash
• C. Shortness of breath
• D. Nausea only

Answer: (C)

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. During anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the throat to swell, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a tight sensation in the chest. This respiratory distress occurs as blood vessels dilate and fluid leaks into the lungs, which impairs normal breathing. While other options such as fever, rash, and nausea can occur in various allergic reactions or other medical conditions, they are not definitive indicators of anaphylaxis. Fever is typically associated with infections rather than allergic reactions. A rash can occur during an allergic response, but it is often a less critical symptom compared to respiratory issues. Nausea may also be present, but it is not the most significant symptom indicative of anaphylaxis when compared to the urgency of shortness of breath. Recognizing shortness of breath as a symptom is crucial for timely intervention, such as administering epinephrine, which can reverse the life-threatening aspects of anaphylaxis.

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. During anaphylaxis, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals that can cause the throat to swell, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a tight sensation in the chest. This respiratory distress occurs as blood vessels dilate and fluid leaks into the lungs, which impairs normal breathing.

While other options such as fever, rash, and nausea can occur in various allergic reactions or other medical conditions, they are not definitive indicators of anaphylaxis. Fever is typically associated with infections rather than allergic reactions. A rash can occur during an allergic response, but it is often a less critical symptom compared to respiratory issues. Nausea may also be present, but it is not the most significant symptom indicative of anaphylaxis when compared to the urgency of shortness of breath. Recognizing shortness of breath as a symptom is crucial for timely intervention, such as administering epinephrine, which can reverse the life-threatening aspects of anaphylaxis.