What is the main characteristic of a foreign-body airway obstruction in children?

Acute respiratory distress is a key characteristic of foreign-body airway obstruction in children because it often occurs suddenly when an object blocks the airway. This obstruction can lead to difficulty breathing, increased work of breathing, and decreased airflow, resulting in signs of distress such as wheezing, stridor, or gasping for air. The immediate effects of the obstruction can cause a sudden change in the child’s breathing pattern, leading to further complications if not addressed quickly.

While the other options may present in various respiratory conditions, they are not defining features of foreign-body airway obstruction. Presence of fever typically indicates an infection rather than an obstruction. A sudden onset of cough can occur in many situations, but it is not the most definitive sign of obstruction on its own. Swollen throat, which may occur due to allergies or infections, does not equate to the mechanical blockage caused by a foreign body. Therefore, the main concern in the context of a foreign-body airway obstruction is the acute respiratory distress stemming directly from the airway blockage.