Which of the following might be a symptom of aspirin toxicity?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Ringing in ears and cough up blood
• C. Fever and chills
• D. Skin rash and itching

Answer: (B)

Aspirin toxicity, also known as salicylism, can manifest through a variety of symptoms, and one of the hallmark indicators is the presence of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears. This occurs because aspirin affects the auditory pathways and can lead to disturbances in hearing. Additionally, cough with blood can indicate more severe complications or gastrointestinal bleeding, which can arise with high doses or chronic use of aspirin, affecting the stomach lining.

While increased heart rate can occur in various medical conditions, it is not a specific symptom of aspirin toxicity. Fever and chills, along with skin rash and itching, are also not directly linked to aspirin toxicity. They may suggest allergic reactions or other conditions but do not typically characterize aspirin overdose. Thus, the symptoms of ringing in the ears and coughing up blood directly align with the effects and risks of aspirin toxicity, making this the most appropriate choice.