Which symptom is commonly associated with a transfusion reaction?

• A. Dyspnea
• B. Headache
• C. Nausea
• D. Rash

Answer: (A)

Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a common sign because transfusion reactions can involve the lungs and airways. Immune and inflammatory processes triggered by transfused blood can lead to bronchospasm, fluid leakage into the lungs, or transfusion-related acute lung injury, all of which cause breathing difficulty during or soon after a transfusion. Recognizing dyspnea quickly is crucial, as stopping the transfusion and providing supportive care can prevent deterioration. Other symptoms like rash, nausea, or headache can occur with some reaction types (rash with allergic reactions, etc.), but respiratory distress is a particularly important and common warning sign across several serious transfusion reactions.