Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Acute epiglottitis in adults is primarily characterized by what symptom?

1. A severe sore throat

2. Difficulty swallowing

3. Fever and chills

4. Stridor

The correct answer is: A severe sore throat

Acute epiglottitis in adults is primarily characterized by a severe sore throat. This symptom often presents as a sudden onset of intense pain in the throat, which can be alarming and is typically associated with difficulty swallowing and speaking. The inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis can cause significant discomfort, leading to difficulty in managing oral intake and may cause the patient to prefer a position that eases their breathing due to the pain. While other symptoms such as fever and chills, difficulty swallowing, and stridor may also be present, they tend to emerge later or can be attributed to other conditions. Stridor, for instance, is a noisy breathing sound that may indicate airway obstruction, but the hallmark of acute epiglottitis is overwhelmingly the sore throat that prompts further concern for potential airway compromise. Recognizing this primary symptom is crucial for timely intervention and preventing progression to respiratory distress.