Question

A cross country athlete is severely allergic to bees and has asthma. If she is having difficulty breathing, what other sign or symptom would help determine whether she is suffering from asthma or experiencing anaphylactic shock?

a. wheezing Help
b. swollen lips, tongue, or throat
c. bluish or gray skin, fingernails, or lips
d. chest tightness
e. none of the above, since all are signs or symptoms of asthma and anaphylactic shock

Answer 1

Swollen lips, tongue, or throat can distinguish anaphylactic shock from an asthma attack. Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with epinephrine to counteract the potentially fatal symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a cross country athlete with severe allergies to bees and asthma is having difficulty breathing, the sign or symptom that would help determine whether she is suffering from asthma or experiencing anaphylactic shock is swollen lips, tongue, or throat. While wheezing, chest tightness, and bluish or gray skin can be symptoms of both asthma and anaphylaxis, the distinct feature of anaphylaxis is the rapid onset of swelling in the aforementioned areas accompanied by a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It is critical to differentiate between the two, as anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment with epinephrine and emergency medical attention due to its potential to be life-threatening.