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.
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.
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
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
