AEMCA Practice Exam

Which symptom is most closely associated with traumatic asphyxia?

1. Severe heartburn

2. Severe shortness of breath

3. Swollen abdomen

4. High fever

The correct answer is: Severe shortness of breath

The symptom most closely associated with traumatic asphyxia is severe shortness of breath. Traumatic asphyxia occurs when there is a sudden compression of the chest or abdomen that leads to an obstruction of airflow, resulting in a lack of oxygen. This can happen in situations where an individual is trapped or crushed, causing increased pressure on the chest wall. The body’s inability to get adequate air leads to a feeling of extreme shortness of breath as the lungs cannot expand properly, which is a direct response to the trauma experienced. This can also be accompanied by other physical symptoms, such as cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin), due to reduced oxygen supply, but the defining symptom is the difficulty in breathing. The other options, while they can indicate medical issues, are not specifically tied to the condition of traumatic asphyxia. Severe heartburn is usually related to gastrointestinal issues, a swollen abdomen can suggest abdominal trauma or conditions like fluid buildup, and a high fever typically signals an infection rather than trauma-induced asphyxia. Understanding these distinct symptoms is essential for prompt recognition and treatment in emergencies.