What's the Difference Between a Sign and Symptom?

Posted by Kathy Quan Aug 30, 2006

A sign is a physical manifestation of illness, injury or disease. A rapid pulse, a high temperature, a low blood pressure, an open wound, bruising, etc. are all signs. A symptom is subjective. A symptom is what the patient experiences about the illness, injury or disease. Symptoms include chills, shaking, shivering, nausea, and vertigo. Symptoms can be characterized by the patient to help the physician diagnose the problem. To find out more about signs and symptoms read this article.