NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which symptom is NOT typically associated with epiglottitis?

1. Fever

2. Drooling

3. Muffled voice

4. Dry cough

The correct answer is: Dry cough

In the context of epiglottitis, a condition characterized by the inflammation of the epiglottis, the typical symptoms include fever, drooling, and a muffled voice due to airway obstruction. Fever often accompanies the infection that leads to epiglottitis, as it is a common response of the body to combat infection. Drooling is also a frequently observed symptom because affected individuals struggle to swallow, leading to saliva accumulation. The muffled voice arises from the swelling and potential obstruction in the airway, making it difficult for the person to speak normally. In contrast, a dry cough is not a typical symptom of epiglottitis. Instead, patients with epiglottitis might exhibit a more severe cough, or in some cases, may not cough at all due to the compromised airway. The absence of a productive cough is significant when determining the presence of this condition, as it highlights the obstruction and inflammation involved. Thus, recognizing the typical symptoms can guide appropriate assessment and intervention for individuals suspected of having epiglottitis.