Anaphylaxis

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a dangerously severe allergic reaction that develops quickly, progresses rapidly, and turns life-threatening without immediate medical care.

Allergic reactions happen when your immune system releases chemicals. In a typical allergic response, the chemicals cause symptoms in one body area, like sneezing and congestion or a skin rash.

You have an anaphylactic reaction when the chemicals affect several body systems.

Am I at risk for anaphylaxis?

Any allergy can trigger anaphylaxis. However, your risk is highest if you’re allergic to:

• Food
• Insect stings
• Medications
• Latex

In some cases, anaphylaxis will be your first allergic reaction.

What symptoms occur during anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can strike anyone at any age. The symptoms often begin within seconds or minutes after exposure to your allergen. But they could take five to 30 minutes to appear. Even if your first reaction is mild, the next one could be severe.

Anaphylaxis causes many symptoms, including:

• Hives
• Red rash
• Swelling in your lips, tongue, and throat
• Swelling in your body (angioedema)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Congested nose
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Hoarseness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fainting

At the first sign of anaphylaxis, it’s essential to use an epinephrine pen (if you have one) and call 911.

How is anaphylaxis treated?

Your Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates provider performs allergy testing (if you haven’t already been tested) to reveal your specific allergens. Then they recommend treatment to reduce your allergic response and prepare you for anaphylactic reactions.

Anaphylaxis treatment includes:

Avoiding your allergens

Avoiding your allergens is vital for food allergies. Your provider also recommends steps to lower your risk of anaphylaxis by limiting your exposure to all allergens.

Getting allergy shots

Allergy shots lower your risk of anaphylaxis by reducing your allergic response to insect venom. They also treat airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, and mold.

Carrying auto-injectable epinephrine

Injecting epinephrine (and then seeking emergency medical care) is the primary treatment. Your provider prescribes an auto-injectable epinephrine pen and teaches you how to use it. You should always keep the pen with you and use it at the first sign of anaphylaxis.

You should always see the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates team after recovering from an anaphylactic reaction. Call the nearest office right away or request an appointment online.