National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

What are potential signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis?

1. Nausea and vomiting

2. High fever

3. Headache

4. Chest pain

The correct answer is: Nausea and vomiting

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen. One of the hallmark signs of anaphylaxis is the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms, which can include nausea and vomiting. These symptoms arise because the body releases a surge of chemicals, such as histamine, in response to an allergen, leading to a systemic reaction. In contrast, other signs or symptoms listed, such as high fever, headache, and chest pain, are not typical indicators of anaphylaxis. High fever usually indicates an infection rather than an allergic reaction, while headache may be a response to various non-allergic conditions. Chest pain can occur in numerous medical scenarios, but it is not a classic sign of anaphylaxis itself. Thus, recognizing nausea and vomiting as potential symptoms aids in the timely identification and management of anaphylactic reactions, allowing for appropriate medical intervention.