Severe Allergic Reactions

Anaphylaxis is a rare but severe allergic reaction that can be deadly. About 1,500 people die of anaphylaxis each year because of reactions to common substances such as foods, insect stings, medicines and latex. Many of these deaths are preventable.

The symptoms of anaphylaxis occur suddenly and can progress quickly. The early symptoms may be mild, such as a runny nose, a skin rash or a "strange feeling." These symptoms can quickly lead to more serious problems, including:

• Trouble breathing
• Hives or swelling
• Tightness of the throat
• Hoarse voice
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart beat
• Feeling of doom
• Cardiac arrest

People who have had a severe allergic reaction are at risk for future reactions. Even if your first reaction is mild, future reactions might be more severe. That's why it's important to carry self-injectable epinephrine if you are at risk. Understanding anaphylaxis and the things that can trigger this severe allergic reaction will help you manage your condition. Ask an allergist for more information about testing, diagnosis and a disease management plan.