Food Allergy Community of East Tennessee
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Anaphylaxis 

Anaphylaxis (pronounced an-uh-fil-LAX-is) is the most severe reaction caused by exposure to a specific allergen. This exposure creates a sudden release of chemical substances, including histamine, from cells in the blood and tissues. The release is triggered by the reaction between the allergic antibody (IgE) and the allergen causing the reaction.

Allergens are commonly food, but can also be medication, insect stings and latex.  Other less common causes are exercise-induced anaphylaxis and food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis, which happens when someone exercises soon after eating a problem food. Those with food allergies and asthma are at a greater risk for anaphylaxis.

An anaphylactic reaction usually occurs within minutes of ingestion, but can be delayed several hours.  Anaphylaxis can affect several areas of the body and can threaten breathing and blood circulation.  A combination of two (2) or more mild
symptoms may be an indicator of anaphylaxis and immediate emergency treatment is necessary.  Reactions may be fatal within minutes so IMMEDIATE emergency treatment is needed - Inject Epinephrine and call 911.

A combination of two (2) or more mild symptoms OR only one (1) severe symptom may be an indicator of anaphylaxis and immediate emergency treatment is necessary! Anaphylaxis is the most severe allergic reaction and life-threatening since it rapidly affects more than one body system (systemic).

Mild Symptoms may include:
Itchy mouth
A few localized hives
Mild nausea/stomach discomfort
Sneezing/congestion/runny nose
Odd taste in mouth
Uterine contractions


Severe Symptoms (anaphylaxis) may include:
Trouble swallowing
Shortness of breath
Obstructive or significant swelling (tongue/lips/throat)
Drop in blood pressure (dizzy, faint, pale, blue)
Widespread hives or redness
Repetitive or projectile vomiting

Severe diarrhea


Epinephrine is the first line of defense for anaphylaxis, or potentially
life-threatening allergic reaction!
  Talk to your doctor to develop an emergency plan.


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SOURCE:
FARE website at
http://www.foodallergy.org
Asthma and Allergy Foundation at http://www.aafa.org

American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology at http://www.acaai.org
Website information should not substitute for seeking responsible, professional medical care.
First created 2012, last updated 2014

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 The content on this web site and any information presented by FACET is for informational purposes only and NOT a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 
The authors are not offering individual medical advice; this material is for reference only. A physician or other qualifying medical professional should always be consulted for medical advice/diagnosis.
The authors of this web site; anyone associated with FACET as members, advocates, leaders, or advisors; Friends of FACET and/or anyone involved with the production of this web site are not responsible, and do not assume responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, illness, death, or otherwise negative impact that may occur after reading and using the information on this web site.


If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately and follow up with a physician.
  • About FACET
    • Become a Member
    • Mission and Goals
    • Our Leadership
    • FACET Advocate Blog
  • Support
    • Our Support Groups >
      • Lil' Champs
      • Champions
      • Support Network (Links)
    • Special Events for Kids >
      • Safe Egg Hunt
      • Summer Camp
      • Happy Halloween
      • Walk for Food Allergy
    • School Setting
    • Family & Friends
    • Dining Out
    • Grocery shopping
    • Holiday Safety
    • Recommended Reading
  • Education
    • Our Advisory Council >
      • Ask the Allergist!
    • #TealPumpkinProject >
      • FA Safety Tips
    • Educational Presentations
    • Food Allergy Basics
    • Symptoms of Reaction
    • Anaphylaxis
    • Diagnosis and Testing
    • Treatment and Managing Reactions
    • Labeling the Top 8 Food Allergens >
      • Milk
      • Egg
      • Soy
      • Wheat
      • Peanut
      • Tree Nut
      • Shellfish
      • Fish
  • Advocacy
    • Awareness Week
    • Stock Epinephrine (Schools)
    • Restaurant Standards & Training
    • Research & Advancing a Cure
    • Food Allergy Blogs
  • Contact Us
    • *Find us on Facebook here!
  • Donate!