The most serious type of allergic reaction is anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that affects multiple body systems simultaneously. It requires immediate medical attention, often involving an epinephrine (adrenaline) injection and a trip to the emergency room.
Key Features of Anaphylaxis:
- Rapid Onset: Symptoms typically appear within minutes of exposure to an allergen.
- Whole-Body Reaction: Anaphylaxis impacts multiple systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, and skin.
- Life-Threatening: If untreated, anaphylaxis can lead to breathing difficulties, a sharp drop in blood pressure (shock), loss of consciousness, and even death.
Common Triggers of Anaphylaxis:
- Foods: Peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, soy, and wheat are common culprits.
- Insect Stings: Bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets can trigger severe reactions.
- Medications: Penicillin and other antibiotics, as well as certain medications used during anesthesia, are potential triggers.
- Latex: Exposure to latex products can cause anaphylaxis in some individuals.
Symptoms of Anaphylaxis:
- Skin Reactions: Hives, itching, flushing, or swelling (angioedema).
- Respiratory Issues: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, throat tightness, hoarseness.
- Cardiovascular Problems: Rapid or weak pulse, dizziness, lightheadedness, loss of consciousness.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping.
Importance of Prompt Treatment:
Because anaphylaxis can be fatal, it's crucial to administer epinephrine immediately and seek emergency medical care. Individuals with known severe allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) and know how to use it. They should also wear medical identification to alert others to their allergy in case of emergency. According to the ACAAI website, anaphylaxis is a whole-body reaction that can impair breathing, cause a drop in blood pressure, and affect heart rate.
