Which symptom should be reported promptly by a patient on high-dose aspirin therapy?

Which symptom should be reported promptly by a patient on high-dose aspirin therapy?

• A. Ringing in the ears
• B. Abdominal pain
• C. Shortness of breath
• D. Dizziness

Answer: (A)

Ringing in the ears signals salicylate toxicity from high-dose aspirin. It’s an early, dose-related warning that the drug level may be becoming dangerous, so it should prompt immediate evaluation and possible dose adjustment or cessation. Abdominal pain is a common GI side effect of aspirin but isn’t as specific for toxicity. Shortness of breath and dizziness can occur with toxicity or other conditions, but tinnitus is the most characteristic red flag that requires prompt medical attention.

Ringing in the ears signals salicylate toxicity from high-dose aspirin. It’s an early, dose-related warning that the drug level may be becoming dangerous, so it should prompt immediate evaluation and possible dose adjustment or cessation. Abdominal pain is a common GI side effect of aspirin but isn’t as specific for toxicity. Shortness of breath and dizziness can occur with toxicity or other conditions, but tinnitus is the most characteristic red flag that requires prompt medical attention.