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What causes anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis occurs when your immune system overreacts to a trigger that would be harmless for most people. Common triggers include: certain foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish), insect venom (e.g., bees or wasps) and some medications (e.g., penicillin or aspirin). Less common causes of anaphylaxis include exercise, anesthesia and latex. Sometimes, even after extensive testing, the cause of anaphylaxis cannot be found.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis, also known as anaphylactic shock, is the most severe form of allergic reaction. Immediate and life-threatening symptoms, including breathing difficulties, can be the result of exposure to an allergen (trigger). Without prompt medical attention, anaphylaxis …

What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?

The symptoms of anaphylaxis can occur almost immediately after exposure to an allergen. Anaphylaxis can occur within minutes: 20 minutes is the average amount of time for symptoms to appear. Symptoms can include: • Facial swelling, including swelling …

Who gets anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can affect anyone that has a severe allergy. Sometimes children will grow out of allergies or triggers.

How is anaphylaxis diagnosed?

Anaphylaxis can be diagnosed using a combination of different tests. These can include a doctor reviewing your medical history, examination of signs and symptoms during anaphylaxis, blood tests (e.g., for the presence of certain antibodies) and skin prick …

How is anaphylaxis treated?

If you or someone else is experiencing anaphylaxis, it is important to call an ambulance. Treatment involves an injection of adrenaline, usually given into the thigh muscle. If your doctor has identified that you are at risk of anaphylaxis, they will prescribe …

Can anaphylaxis be cured?

Anaphylaxis cannot be cured. Some children may grow out of one or more of their particular food allergies. Otherwise, avoiding known triggers is the only way to prevent anaphylaxis.

Will anaphylaxis clear on its own?

No, anaphylaxis is a very serious condition and will rarely clear on its own. It is best to call an ambulance as you will require an injection of adrenaline and sometimes other treatment.

What can be done at home to treat anaphylaxis?

If your doctor has identified that you are at risk of anaphylaxis, they will prescribe you injectable adrenaline, or adrenaline shots, for you to carry with you at all times so that you can be treated immediately if you have an anaphylactic …

Can anaphylaxis be prevented?

If you have identified the causes or triggers for your anaphylaxis, you can prevent the condition by avoiding the causes. Sometimes anaphylaxis cannot be prevented; for example, you may not know that you are allergic to a trigger until it causes you to go into …

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About this article

Author: Dr Joanne Van der Velden PhD, BSc (Hons)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 1280 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Asthma

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