What is a common symptom of Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. A hallmark symptom of diphtheria is the formation of a thick, adherent pseudomembrane in the throat, which can lead to respiratory distress. This membrane can obstruct the airway, making it difficult for the patient to breathe. The presence of this thick covering is a significant indicator of the disease and is critical for diagnosis and treatment.

Other listed symptoms such as paroxysmal cough, muscle rigidity, and lockjaw are associated with different conditions. For instance, a paroxysmal cough is more characteristic of conditions like whooping cough, while muscle rigidity and lockjaw pertain to tetanus. Understanding the specific symptoms of diphtheria helps health professionals differentiate it from other respiratory illnesses and underscores the importance of timely recognition and intervention.