Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening type of allergic reaction.

Anaphylactic reaction; Anaphylactic shock; Shock - anaphylactic; Allergic reaction - anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, whole-body allergic reaction to a chemical that has become an allergen. An allergen is a substance that, for most people, is harmless, but in some people, it can cause an allergic reaction.

After being exposed to a substance such as bee sting venom, the person's immune system becomes sensitized to it. When the person is exposed to that allergen again, an allergic reaction may occur. Anaphylaxis usually happens quickly after the exposure. The condition is severe and involves the whole body.

Tissues in different parts of the body release histamine and other substances. This causes the airways to tighten and leads to other symptoms.

Some medicines (morphine, x-ray dye, aspirin, and others) may cause an anaphylactic-like reaction (often called an anaphylactoid reaction) when people are first exposed to them. These reactions are not the same as the immune system response that occurs with true anaphylaxis. But, the symptoms, risk of complications, and treatment are the same for both types of reactions.

Anaphylaxis can occur in response to any allergen. Common causes include:

• Medicine allergies
• Food allergies
• Insect bites/stings

Pollen and other inhaled allergens rarely cause anaphylaxis. Some people have an anaphylactic reaction with no known cause.

Anaphylaxis is life threatening and can occur at any time. Risks include a history of any type of allergic reaction.

Symptoms develop quickly, often within seconds or minutes. They may include any of the following:

• Abdominal pain
• Feeling anxious
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, or high-pitched breathing sounds
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Hives, itchiness, redness of the skin
• Nasal congestion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Palpitations
• Slurred speech
• Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
• Unconsciousness

Anaphylaxis is an emergency condition that needs medical attention right away. Call 911 or the local emergency number immediately.

Check the person's airway, breathing, and circulation, which are known as the ABC's of Basic Life Support. A warning sign of dangerous throat swelling is a very hoarse or whispered voice, or coarse sounds when the person is breathing in air. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.

DO NOT:

• Do not assume that any allergy shots the person has already received will provide complete protection.
• Do not place a pillow under the person's head if they are having trouble breathing. This can block the airways.
• Do not give the person anything by mouth if they are having trouble breathing.

Paramedics or other providers may place a tube through the nose or mouth into the airways. Or emergency surgery will be done to place a tube directly into the trachea.

The person may receive medicines to further reduce symptoms.

Anaphylaxis can be life threatening without prompt treatment. Symptoms usually do get better with the right therapy, so it is important to act right away.

Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis may result in:

• Blocked airway
• Cardiac arrest (no effective heartbeat)
• Respiratory arrest (no breathing)
• Shock
• Death

Call 911 or the local emergency number if you or someone you know develops severe symptoms of anaphylaxis. Or, go to the nearest emergency room.

To prevent allergic reactions and anaphylaxis:

• Avoid triggers such as foods and medicines that have caused an allergic reaction in the past. Ask detailed questions about ingredients when you are eating away from home. Also carefully examine ingredient labels.
• If you have a child who is allergic to certain foods, introduce one new food at a time in small amounts so you can recognize an allergic reaction.
• People who know that they have had serious allergic reactions should wear a medical ID tag or bracelet.
• If you have a history of serious allergic reactions, carry injectable epinephrine according to your provider's instructions.
• There is no contraindication to using epinephrine in a severe allergic reaction.

Published Date: March 31, 2024
Published By: Deborah Pedersen, MD, MS, Allergy & Asthma Care, PC, Taunton, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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