What Is Allergy? What Is Asthma?   - Classification   - Diagnosis Allergic Rhinitis   - Related Diseases Skin Allergy   - Eczema   - Hives   - Angioedema Food Allergy Stinging Insect Allergy Drug Allergy Latex Allergy Anaphylaxis (Severe Reactions) Immunodeficiency Disorder

For a version suitable for printing, click here. Anaphylaxis When someone is exposed to an allergen, the body reacts by producing antibodies that produce symptoms like runny nose, itchy eyes, hives, and other reactions. (Find out more about allergies by reading What is Allergy?) Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. In some instances, allergies can be fatal when anaphylaxis occurs. Symptoms that may signal the onset of anaphylaxis include: Flushing Swelling of the lips, throat, tongue, hands, and/or feet Upper-respiratory problems, including difficulty breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath, hoarseness, and coughing. Nausea and/or vomiting Abdominal cramps Sense of impending doom and/or loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis can affect various organ systems including the skin, respiratory, cardiovascular, eyes, uterus, and bladder. It can be mistaken for other reactions such as hyperventilation, anxiety, intoxication, or low blood sugar. What Causes Anaphylaxis? Drugs are the leading cause of anaphylaxis, the major ones being antibiotics, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Food and food additives can also cause anaphylaxis, the most common causes being milk, eggs, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and sulfites. Stinging insects can also cause anaphylaxis. How Do I Treat Anaphylaxis? Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. Epinephrine (adrenalin) is usually given immediately and other medications such as antihistamines and steroids may be administered. The sooner the reaction is treated, the less severe it will be. Once epinephrine is administered, you must seek further medical assistance as the effects of the adrenalin may begin to wear off after 10 to 20 minutes. How Can I Prevent Anaphylaxis? Avoidance of the allergen is the best prevention. Unfortunately, with bees flying around, additives in food, and labels that are not always clear, anaphylaxis may occur. If a severe reaction occurs, be sure to seek treatment in order to be prepared in case you are again exposed. Those who know their life-threatening allergies should wear a Medic-Alert bracelet and should know how to administer an epinephrine or adrenaline kit and carry one at all times. If your child could suffer from anaphylaxis, use our Emergency Treatment for Allergic Reactions sheet to prepare his or her school, babysitter, and others for an emergency. ^ Back to Top

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