Anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock, is the most serious allergic reaction and can cause death without prompt medical attention.
Anaphylaxis is a generalised allergic reaction, which often involves more than one body system (e.g. skin, respiratory, gastro-intestinal and cardiovascular). Food allergies, insect stings, medications (including prescriptions, over the counter, alternative therapies), and latex are the most common causes of anaphylactic reactions. A severe allergic reaction or Anaphylaxis usually occurs within 20 minutes to 2 hours of exposure to the trigger and can rapidly become life threatening.
Symptoms are
~ Facial swelling, including swelling of the lips and eyelids
~ Swollen tongue
~ Reddening of skin across the body
~ Hives (red welts) appearing across the skin
~ Abdominal discomfort or pain
~ Vomiting
~ Strained or noisy breathing
~ Inability to talk or hoarseness
~ Wheezing or coughing
~ Drop in blood pressure
~ Unconsciousness
~ Young children may become floppy and pale