Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)

Overview

Common triggers are foods, insect stings, medicines, and latex.

Symptoms can return hours later, so stay under observation after epinephrine.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Trouble breathing
• Swelling of lips or throat
• Fainting

Less common

• Hives
• Vomiting

Look up a symptom: Swollen or puffy eyelid or eye · Throat feels tight, or like a lump in the throat

When to get medical care

Causes

Allergens.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• People with asthma: Worse reactions
• People with past anaphylaxis: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Shock: Dangerously low blood pressure
• Sudden cardiac arrest: In severe cases

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Use epinephrine
• Call 911
• Lie down

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to an allergist (allergy and asthma doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children with food allergies: Schools need an action plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast epinephrine saves lives.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?
• Do I need an epinephrine auto-injector?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)