Describe the signs of an upper airway obstruction.

The signs of an upper airway obstruction are primarily characterized by audible respiratory sounds and difficulty in speaking and breathing. Stridor is a high-pitched sound that occurs when there is a partial obstruction of the airway, indicating that air is struggling to pass through a narrowed space. Difficulty speaking suggests that the person may be unable to get enough air to form words due to the blockage. The excessive use of accessory muscles for breathing indicates that the body is working harder to move air into the lungs, often seen in cases of respiratory distress where the airway is compromised. This combination of signs is critical for identifying potential life-threatening situations related to upper airway obstruction.

Other options include symptoms that may not specifically indicate an upper airway obstruction or are more relevant to other conditions, making them less accurate in this context.