Pronounced: ANNA-fill-AX-is
Substances that cause anaphylaxis are often called allergens or triggers. Common triggers include:
Some triggers, like dyes used in x-ray procedures, can cause a reaction similar to anaphylaxis.
These factors increase your chance of developing anaphylaxis. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
The symptoms of anaphylaxis usually occur within minutes after exposure to an allergen, but can occur hours later. Symptoms may be mild or very severe, including death. They include:
Diagnosis is based on the symptoms. The doctor will suspect anaphylaxis if you have symptoms and have been exposed to a likely allergen.
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment, including:
If you are diagnosed with anaphylaxis, follow your doctor's instructions .
Avoiding substances that trigger anaphylaxis is the best prevention. In addition:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
http://www.aaaai.org/
The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network
http://www.foodallergy.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Allergy Asthma Information Association
http://aaia.ca/
Calgary Allergy Network
http://www.calgaryallergy.ca/
References:
Anaphylaxis. Emedicine . May 2001 .
Kay AB. Allergy and allergic diseases–second of two parts. N Engl J Med . 2001;344:109-113.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases website. Available at: http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/ . Accessed March 25, 2007.
Pumphrey, R. Anaphylaxis: can we tell who is at risk of a fatal reaction?. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2004; 4:285.
Sampson, HA, Munoz-Furlong, A, Campbell, RL, et al. Second symposium on the definition and management of anaphylaxis: summary report—Second National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease/Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network symposium. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2006;117:391.
Winbery SL, Lieberman PL. Anaphylaxis. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 1995;15:447.
Last reviewed February 2009 by Julie D.K. McNairn, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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