Anaphylaxis

What Is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs rapidly after exposure to an allergen. It affects multiple body systems at the same time, including the airways, cardiovascular system, skin, and digestive tract.

Unlike mild allergic reactions, anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

Why Does Anaphylaxis Occur?

Anaphylaxis happens when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and releases a large amount of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream.

This sudden release causes:

• Airway narrowing and swelling

• A drop in blood pressure

• Reduced oxygen delivery to vital organs

Without prompt treatment, these changes can quickly become dangerous.

Common Triggers of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is most commonly triggered by:

• Food allergies (peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs)

• Insect stings or venom (bees, wasps)

• Medications (antibiotics, painkillers)

• Latex

• Exercise-induced allergic reactions (rare, often food-related)

In some cases, the exact trigger may remain unknown.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Symptoms usually develop within minutes of exposure but can sometimes be delayed.

Common signs include:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing

• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face

• Tightness in the chest or throat

• Rapid or weak pulse

• Dizziness, fainting, or collapse

• Hives, itching, or flushed skin

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Not all symptoms need to be present for anaphylaxis to occur.

How Anaphylaxis Differs From a Mild Allergic Reaction

Mild allergies usually affect one system, such as the skin or nose.
Anaphylaxis affects multiple systems at once and progresses rapidly.

Key differences:

• Involves breathing or circulation problems

• Symptoms worsen quickly

• Does not resolve without treatment

If there is any doubt, it should always be treated as an emergency.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Immediate medical help is required if anaphylaxis is suspected.

Call emergency services right away if someone:

• Has trouble breathing or swallowing

• Collapses or loses consciousness

• Has swelling of the tongue or throat

• Experiences rapid symptom progression

Even if symptoms improve after initial treatment, medical evaluation is still necessary.