Coughing and cyanosis during a transfusion are symptoms of which reaction?

Coughing and cyanosis during a blood transfusion are indicative of circulatory overload. This type of reaction occurs when the volume of blood being transfused overwhelms the patient’s circulatory system, leading to fluid overload. The symptoms like coughing may arise due to pulmonary edema, where excess fluid accumulates in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. Cyanosis, which refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin, occurs due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood, often a result of compromised lung function from the overload.

Recognizing this condition is crucial because it highlights the importance of monitoring the patient's response to transfusions, particularly in those who may have pre-existing cardiovascular issues or who are receiving large volumes of blood. Timely identification and management of circulatory overload are essential to prevent severe complications.