Which is NOT a symptom of AGE?

• A. Shortness of breath
• B. Unconsciousness
• C. Dizziness
• D. Nausea and vomiting

Answer: (A)

AGE occurs when gas bubbles travel through the arterial circulation and block blood flow to organs, so the most common and telling signs are sudden neurological disturbances. Dizziness can arise from brain involvement or vestibular effects, and unconsciousness is a clear red flag of cerebral gas embolism. Nausea and vomiting can also occur with brainstem or intracranial involvement. Shortness of breath, while it can occur if the lungs are affected, is not a defining or consistently expected symptom of AGE on its own. It points more toward pulmonary involvement or other conditions, whereas the neurologic signs listed are the classic, direct manifestations of AGE.