Do you Know What Anaphylaxis is?

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that occurs suddenly and can progress very quickly. Common triggers for an anaphylactic reaction include food, insect stings, medications, and latex. An anaphylactic reaction is an emergency situation that needs to be treated immediately with a medication called epinephrine. At Allergy & Clinical Immunology, our physicians have the expertise and training to review your allergy history, perform diagnostic testing, and educate patients on potential treatment plans and avoidance measures to help prevent anaphylaxis from occurring.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis:

Early symptoms of anaphylaxis may be mild, such as an itchy throat or a runny nose. These symptoms can progress quickly, however, into much more serious symptoms. These symptoms include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Trouble breathing
• Hives or swelling
• Tightness of the throat
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Low blood pressure
• Cardiac arrest

Anaphylaxis is an acute life-threatening reaction that results from a sudden release of chemicals into the system. The more rapidly anaphylaxis develops, the more likely the reaction is to be severe and potentially life-threatening.

Learning and avoiding potential triggers is the best way to prevent anaphylaxis. If you have a history of allergies and/or asthma and have had a severe reaction in the past, you are at an increased risk for having an anaphylactic reaction in the future. Make an appointment today at Allergy & Clinical Immunology to learn more about the management and treatment of anaphylaxis!