Which of the following is least likely to be a respiratory distress symptom?

Accumulated mucus is least likely to be a direct symptom of respiratory distress. While it can be associated with respiratory conditions and may contribute to breathing difficulties, it does not immediately indicate respiratory distress in the same way that the other symptoms do. Wheezing, for example, is a clear sign of airway constriction and difficulty in breathing, commonly associated with asthma or other obstructive diseases. Confusion may arise due to hypoxia or inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain, indicating a serious issue with airway or breathing status. Fainting, similarly, can signal severe oxygen deprivation or a significant medical emergency affecting the body’s ability to adequately oxygenate tissues. In contrast, while accumulated mucus can certainly play a role in respiratory issues, it is more of a contributing factor rather than a primary symptom of respiratory distress itself.