What is Anaphylaxis?

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction to a substance (inhaled, eaten or brushed against the skin) which can be life threatening. Anaphylaxis is also known as anaphylactic shock.

Anaphylaxis involves the release of the antibody IgE, which causes the release of high levels of histamine in response to ingestion, touch or inhalation of a certain substance to cause a inflammatory response in the body to the allergen, which the body views as toxic. If the release of histamine is not reduced, it can cause very serious symptoms that can ultimately be life threatening.

Anaphylaxis happens very quickly, sometimes without much warning (especially if the person does not realise they are allergic to a particular substance or if they eat something with a known allergen, but they are unaware of this). This condition can lead to death if not treated promptly and if the allergic reaction is serious and intense.

Some facts about anaphylaxis

A person with anaphylaxis needs immediate medical assistance
People with known serious allergies to substances should wear identifying bracelet to alert people to their condition if they cannot talk during a serious anaphylaxis reaction
An injection of adrenaline is the only way to prevent death from a serious anaphylaxis reaction
Anaphylaxis can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen
Biphasic anaphylaxis symptoms (those symptoms which happen 2-3 hours after first, initially mild symptoms) occur in about 20% of all cases of anaphylaxis

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Last reviewed: 18 November 2007 || Last updated: 12 March 2009

Adrenaline (glossary)
Allergic rhinitis (condition)
Allergies (glossary)
Asthma (conditions)
Bronchitis (conditions)
Eczema (conditions)
Epinephrine (glossary)
Sinusitis (conditions)

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Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.

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