Which of the following is a common indicator of dyspnea?

• A. Nasal flaring
• B. Night sweats
• C. Polyphagia
• D. Edema of ankles

Answer: (A)

Dyspnea shows up as increased work of breathing, and a common visible sign of that effort is nasal flaring. When someone is trying to breathe harder, the nostrils widen to pull in more air and reduce airway resistance, a reflex often seen in respiratory distress, especially in children.

Night sweats aren’t directly related to the mechanics of breathing. Polyphagia is an appetite change seen in metabolic issues, not respiratory effort. Edema of the ankles points to fluid overload or venous problems and may accompany heart conditions, but it isn’t a direct indicator of active dyspnea.