CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which of the following are symptoms of inadequate oxygen supply?

1. Diaphoresis

2. Dyspnea

3. Cyanosis

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Inadequate oxygen supply can manifest through various physiological symptoms, each of which plays a significant role in indicating a lack of adequate oxygen in the body. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, can be a result of the body's stress response to lowered oxygen levels. When oxygen supply is insufficient, the body’s autonomic nervous system may stimulate sweat production as part of its efforts to maintain homeostasis or as a reaction to physical distress. Dyspnea, which refers to difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath, is a direct symptom of inadequate oxygen supply. When there is a deficiency of oxygen, the body struggles to deliver enough oxygen to tissues and organs, triggering a sensation of breathlessness. Cyanosis is the bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, particularly visible in areas such as the lips and fingertips. This occurs when there is a significant decrease in oxygen saturation in the blood, indicating that the body is not receiving sufficient oxygen. Since each of these symptoms—diaphoresis, dyspnea, and cyanosis—can occur as a response to inadequate oxygen supply, it follows that all of them collectively represent the physiological impact of insufficient oxygen in the body. This comprehensive understanding highlights the interconnected nature of these symptoms in