Which of the following is an example of a symptom?

A symptom is typically defined as any subjective evidence of a disease or condition that is experienced by the patient. It is based on personal perceptions and feelings, which healthcare providers cannot measure directly. Chest pain is classified as a symptom because it reflects the patient’s personal experience of discomfort, which can signify an underlying issue or condition that requires further investigation.

In contrast, swelling of the ankles, a high blood pressure reading, and a skin rash are all examples of signs. Signs are objective findings that can be measured or observed by a healthcare provider. For instance, swelling can be noted through physical examination, high blood pressure readings are obtained through measurement devices, and a skin rash can be observed during an assessment. These factors contribute to the overall clinical picture but do not capture the patient's personal experience associated with the condition, which is central to the definition of a symptom.