Anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe, potentially fatal, systemic allergic reaction that can involve various areas of the body (such as the skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and cardiovascular system). This allergic shock reaction can be mild to life-threatening. Symptoms can occur within minutes to 2 hours after contact with the allergy-causing substance and in rare instances up to 4 hours later. People with asthma, eczema, or hay fever are at higher risk of experiencing anaphylaxis.

After exposure to any allergy causing substance (allergen), the body releases chemicals called histamines that may cause swelling of tissues in the airway, a red rash, swelling of the skin, and/or severe itching. Examples of allergens are insect stings, drugs, foods like peanuts or shellfish, and inhalants, such as chemicals and perfumes.

The symptoms of allergic shock include:

• feeling faint
• fast pulse
• breathing problems
• nausea and vomiting
• stomach pain
• swelling of throat, lips, or tongue
• itching
• blotchy raised rash or hives
• pale, cool, damp skin
• drowsiness
• confusion
• loss of consciousness
• heart failure
• kidney damage and
• death

Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms develop after someone comes in contact with something they know they are allergic to. Assistance must be given to anyone whose breathing or heart stops.

Precautions to take:

• discuss all past reactions with a healthcare provider
• avoid all known substances that may cause an allergic shock reaction
• wear an ID bracelet to alert bystanders and medical personnel
• carry an allergy kit at all times for self-treatment when necessary
• make sure friends, relatives, and co-workers know what to do in case help is needed
• if experiencing allergic shock and waiting for help, lie down and raise the legs above the heart level to increase blood circulation to the brain and heart
• begin CPR on anyone having an allergic shock reaction who stops breathing

To decrease the severity of an attack:

• consider having immunotherapy; make an appointment with an allergist for testing and desensitizing treatment
• learn what substances cause the reactions and in what form they can be found
• carry an allergy kit with you at all times
• check labels before taking over-the-counter drugs or eating food items that have a combination of ingredients

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File ALLE4151.rf2 VRS# 4151 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999-2000, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.

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