What are the signs of anaphylaxis?

The signs of anaphylaxis are characterized by a rapid and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can affect multiple body systems. The correct choice highlights critical symptoms associated with this condition, including shortness of breath, swelling, hives, and rapidly dropping blood pressure.

Shortness of breath can occur due to airway constriction or swelling, leading to respiratory distress. Swelling, particularly of the face, throat, or tongue, can impede breathing and circulation. Hives, or urticaria, are raised, itchy welts on the skin that indicate an allergic response, and rapidly dropping blood pressure can reflect severe cardiovascular involvement, which is common in anaphylaxis due to the release of inflammatory mediators that cause vasodilation and increased vascular permeability.

In contrast, the other options do not encompass the critical features of anaphylaxis. For example, headache, nausea, and rash may be seen in various allergic reactions but do not specifically indicate anaphylaxis. Fever, fatigue, and dizziness are more general symptoms that could occur due to numerous conditions, not necessarily pinpointing an acute allergic response. Joint pain, stomach cramps, and skin flushing may suggest other allergic or inflammatory processes but are not hallmark signs of the acute response seen in anaphylaxis.