NHA Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common symptom of infection?

1. High blood pressure.

2. Increased appetite.

3. Fever.

4. More energy.

The correct answer is: Fever.

Fever is a common symptom of infection because it is part of the body's natural immune response. When an infection occurs, the immune system releases substances called pyrogens that signal the hypothalamus to raise the body's temperature. This elevated body temperature can help inhibit the growth of pathogens and enhance the effectiveness of immune cells. Fever is often accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, sweating, and fatigue, which further indicate that the body is fighting against an infection. In contrast, high blood pressure is not a typical sign of infection, as it can be influenced by various factors not specifically related to infectious processes. Increased appetite generally does not occur during an infection; instead, many individuals tend to lose their appetite due to the body's focus on fighting off illness. Lastly, the feeling of having more energy is contrary to how most people feel during an infection, as fatigue and malaise are common experiences when the body is under stress from an illness.