Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which symptom is commonly associated with hypoglycemia?

1. Increased thirst

2. Fractured bones

3. Dilated pupils

4. Fever

The correct answer is: Dilated pupils

The symptom commonly associated with hypoglycemia is dilated pupils. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which may lead to a fight-or-flight response. This response often results in various physiological changes, including altered pupil size. In particular, dilated pupils can occur during hypoglycemic episodes due to this sympathetic activation. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect symptoms related to hypoglycemia. Increased thirst is more typically associated with dehydration or conditions like hyperglycemia or diabetes mellitus. Fractured bones are a physical injury and not a symptom of hypoglycemia. Fever usually indicates an infection or inflammatory process rather than low blood sugar levels. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the specific symptoms associated with different medical conditions.