North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Which of the following conditions can mimic a stroke?

1. Chronic fatigue syndrome

2. Hypoglycemia

3. Heart attack

4. Severe dehydration

The correct answer is: Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can produce neurological symptoms that closely resemble those of a stroke. When blood sugar levels drop significantly, individuals may experience confusion, weakness, dizziness, difficulty speaking, and even loss of coordination—symptoms that are often associated with a cerebrovascular accident. Understanding the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia is crucial for EMTs and medical professionals, as rapid intervention with glucose can often resolve the symptoms, distinguishing it from a true stroke. Recognizing this condition as a potential stroke mimic is vital to ensure patients receive appropriate treatment in a timely manner. The other conditions listed, while they can lead to serious health issues or altered mental status, typically do not produce the acute and specific neurological deficits that are characteristic of stroke. For example, chronic fatigue syndrome usually results in persistent fatigue and other systemic symptoms but is not likely to cause sudden-onset neurological impairments. Heart attacks can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, or radiating discomfort, but don’t typically mimic the focal neurological deficits seen in strokes. Severe dehydration may cause confusion and lethargy but does not usually result in acute stroke-like symptoms as its primary manifestation. Each of these conditions holds its own distinct clinical presentations that differ from the acute onset