What are the symptoms of epiglottitis?

The correct answer highlights the characteristic symptoms associated with epiglottitis, particularly the absence of cough and drooling. In cases of epiglottitis, the inflammation of the epiglottis leads to significant swelling and can obstruct the airway. Patients often present with drooling because they have difficulty swallowing and an inability to properly clear secretions. The absence of a cough is notable due to the severity of the throat pain and the need to avoid further irritation of the inflamed tissues.

This combination of symptoms is indicative of epiglottitis and raises the level of concern for airway compromise, making it critical for immediate medical evaluation and intervention. The lack of cough, along with drooling, distinguishes epiglottitis from other upper respiratory infections. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for timely intervention to prevent respiratory distress.

The other choices do not align with the classical presentation of epiglottitis. For example, high fever and rash are more indicative of other infectious diseases rather than specific to epiglottitis. Severe headache and vomiting are also not prominent features in epiglottitis cases. Additionally, wheezing and chest pain are symptoms associated with lower respiratory conditions, not the upper airway inflammation seen in epiglottitis. Understanding these differences is