What are the common signs and symptoms of an infection?

The signs and symptoms associated with an infection typically include fever, redness, swelling, and discharge at the site of infection. These manifestations occur as part of the body's immune response to pathogens. Fever serves as a systemic response indicating that the body is fighting off an infection. Redness and swelling, known as inflammation, occur as immune cells gather at the affected area, increasing blood flow and allowing for more white blood cells to reach the site to combat the infection. Discharge may also indicate the presence of pus, which consists of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris, confirming that an infection is present.

Other options, while they may reflect certain medical conditions, do not specifically represent the classic signs of infection. For instance, chest pain and difficulty breathing can relate to a variety of issues including cardiovascular and respiratory problems, while nausea and vomiting as well as headache and fatigue can occur due to numerous causes, not exclusively infections. Thus, option B accurately encapsulates the most commonly recognized indicators of an infection.