What is anaphylaxis?

Causes of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis can be triggered by various allergens, including:

• Foods: Common food triggers include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, soy, and wheat.


• Medications: Certain medications, such as penicillin, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause anaphylaxis.


• Insect Stings: Stings from bees, wasps, hornets, and fire ants can trigger anaphylaxis in susceptible individuals.


• Latex: Exposure to latex in gloves, balloons, and other products can cause anaphylactic reactions.


• Exercise: Rarely, exercise-induced anaphylaxis can occur, sometimes in conjunction with food or medication triggers.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis symptoms can appear within minutes to hours after exposure to an allergen and may include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath


• Swelling of the throat, tongue, or lips


• Wheezing or a tight feeling in the chest


• Rapid or weak pulse


• Drop in blood pressure


• Dizziness or fainting


• Hives, itching, or skin rash


• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea


• Abdominal pain


• Feeling of impending doom

Emergency Treatment for Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. The following steps should be taken:

Administer Epinephrine

Epinephrine (adrenaline) is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. It should be administered immediately using an auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q, or Adrenaclick). Epinephrine works quickly to reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis by:

• Constricting blood vessels to increase blood pressure


• Relaxing the muscles in the airways to improve breathing


• Reducing swelling and hives

Call Emergency Services

After administering epinephrine, call emergency services immediately. Even if symptoms improve after the injection, professional medical evaluation and monitoring are necessary, as symptoms can recur.

Position the Person Appropriately

If the person is conscious, have them lie down with their legs elevated to improve blood flow. If they are vomiting or having difficulty breathing, position them on their side to prevent choking.

Provide Additional Treatments

While waiting for emergency services, additional treatments may be necessary:

• Antihistamines: To relieve itching and hives, although they are not a substitute for epinephrine.


• Inhalers: For individuals with asthma, inhalers can help relieve bronchospasm.


• CPR: If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Prevention of Anaphylaxis

Preventing anaphylaxis involves avoiding known triggers and being prepared for emergencies:

• Identify and avoid allergens that can trigger anaphylaxis.


• Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector if you have a known allergy.


• Wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies your allergies.


• Inform friends, family, and coworkers about your allergies and how to use an epinephrine auto-injector.


• Have an action plan in place for managing allergic reactions, including steps to take in an emergency.