Anaphylaxis

  • A young child in a beige jacket is joyfully holding an open black umbrella. They are smiling widely, standing outdoors in front of a glass window.

    Thomas Silvera Discusses His Son Elijah’s Legacy After Tragic Food Allergy Death

    Elijah passed away after he had an anaphylactic reaction to a grilled cheese at his daycare. Elijah’s family now advocates for better training in…

  • Thick smoke billows into the sky from a wildfire burning in a grassy, wooded area. A fence runs through the foreground, and trees are visible under the smoke. The sky is overcast, adding to the somber atmosphere.

    How to Prepare for Major Storms or Natural Disasters If You Have Asthma or Allergies

    Learn how to take extra precautions in preparation for hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters if you have asthma or allergies.

  • A man in a blue shirt is standing in a pharmacy aisle, holding a product and reading its label. Shelves stocked with various health products surround him. He is carrying a shopping basket.

    Need Help Paying for Allergy and Asthma Medications?

    Learn more about discounts, patient assistance programs, and other ideas for affording asthma, allergy and anaphylaxis medications.

  • Webinar series banner titled "Advances in Allergy & Asthma: Idiopathic Anaphylaxis - What to Do When a Cause Eludes You," presented by Allergy & Asthma Network and the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

    Idiopathic Anaphylaxis- What to Do When a Cause Eludes You

    Dr. Anne Ellis discusses how to evaluate a patient when a cause for anaphylaxis is not identified — also known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.

  • A doctor wearing a white coat, face shield, and mask talks to a seated patient in a medical office. Two healthcare workers are seen in the background. Medical equipment and a computer with a scan are visible.

    After the ER: How to Ensure a Safe Transition of Care for Asthma or Anaphylaxis

    Tips for managing your follow up care and emotional well-being after needing emergency care for asthma or anaphylaxis

  • A person wearing a gray top is clutching their chest, seemingly in discomfort or experiencing difficulty breathing, possibly due to anaphylaxis. Their face is partly visible, and their posture suggests concern.

    The Asthma-Food Allergy Connection

    Asthma and food allergy symptoms often overlap. Here is what you need to know.

  • A man in a white lab coat plays a blue electric bass guitar and sings into a microphone. He is seated in front of a backdrop with logos from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

    Meet the Asthma Blues Man With a Plan

    Al Keith is known as the “Asthma Blues” man for his musical asthma management learning tool.

  • A doctor in a white coat is speaking with an older woman, both holding tablets. The image is overlaid with the words "Ask the Allergist.

    Ask the Allergist: Anaphylaxis or Asthma Flare?

    Dr. Todd Mahr answers the Ask the Allergist question: How can people with food allergies know the difference between anaphylaxis and an asthma attack?

  • A smiling woman and a young boy sitting in airplane seats. They are leaning toward each other with a drink and a small container on the tray table in front of them. The interior of the plane is visible in the background.

    Taking Flight: Why Epi Auto-Injectors Are Critical on Airlines

    One family’s terrifying allergy experience on a plane takes them to Capitol Hill as advocates.

  • A person with curly hair stands in front of three closed white doors, facing away from the camera. They wear a white T-shirt and jeans, appearing to be making a decision. The setting has a wooden floor and a neutral-colored wall.

    Anaphylaxis Unknown? Put On Your Detective Cap

    For people with no previously diagnosed allergy, anaphylaxis can be the beginning of a detective search worthy of the great Sherlock Holmes himself. When…

All About

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction affecting multiple organ systems and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Exposure to allergens causes a drop in blood pressure and the airways to constrict. Once there are visible symptoms, the condition can worsen quickly, and death may occur in minutes. People who are prone to allergic reactions from food, insect venom, medication and latex should always be prepared for anaphylaxis as symptoms can worsen and change without warning. Someone that experiences mild swelling from a bee sting can subsequently experience potentially fatal symptoms. People with a history of anaphylaxis, a family history of such reactions, or who suffer severe allergies or asthma should all be aware of what to do in an emergency. Symptoms can include swelling and hives at the site or in the mouth, lips and tongue. Vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, dizziness, weak pulse, fainting, watery eyes, stuffy nose, sweating, confusion and losing consciousness can also occur. If someone goes into anaphylactic shock, time is of the essence. Epinephrine should be given immediately. Waiting to see if symptoms worsen can be fatal. Emergency treatment should always be sought; even if symptoms improve, the patient needs observation as it is common for a second reaction to occur even hours later. Epinephrine increases heart rate and blood pressure, relaxes muscles in the airways, helps swelling, and suppresses the patient’s immune response, effectively stopping the reaction. There is no substitute for epinephrine injection; antihistamines only work on mild reactions such as swelling, so do not delay treatment. Two epinephrine auto-injectors should always be available, as well as an emergency plan with details about symptoms and how to use the device prescribed, especially in the case of at-risk children to have at school or when not with their parents. Epinephrine devices should always be stored at room temperature, never in direct sunlight, and always checked for oxidation and expiration. If the medication has particles or isn’t clear, replace it immediately.