Which of the following signs and symptoms indicate salicylate toxicity?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Ringing in ears

Rationale:

Salicylate toxicity, also known as aspirin poisoning, occurs when there is an excessive amount of salicylate in the body. This can happen due to an overdose of aspirin or chronic use of high doses.
One of the hallmark signs of salicylate toxicity is tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. This symptom is often an early indicator of toxicity and can be accompanied by hearing loss.
Other symptoms of salicylate toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, hyperventilation, metabolic acidosis, and confusion. Severe cases can lead to more serious complications such as seizures and coma.

Explanation of Other Options:

Chest pain

Rationale: Chest pain is not a typical sign of salicylate toxicity. It is more commonly associated with cardiovascular conditions such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or angina.

Pink-colored urine

Rationale: Pink-colored urine is usually indicative of hematuria (blood in the urine), which can be caused by a variety of conditions including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or trauma. It is not a sign of salicylate toxicity.

Slow pulse rate

Rationale: A slow pulse rate (bradycardia) is not typically associated with salicylate toxicity. More commonly, salicylate toxicity can cause tachycardia (increased heart rate) due to its stimulating effects on the central nervous system and metabolic processes.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, ringing in the ears is the correct indicator of salicylate toxicity. Recognizing this symptom early can be crucial for timely intervention and treatment to prevent further complications.