Anaphylactic shock, also known as anaphylaxis, is a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal. This reaction can happen within minutes of being exposed to the allergen. Allergens that cause anaphylaxis can be foods, drugs, insects, or rarely environmental. When the reaction does happen, it usually severely compromises breathing, causes a drastic drop in blood pressure, and requires immediate medical attention. Here in Florida, where we have a multitude of allergens present all year, it is imperative to know the signs of anaphylactic shock. In this post, we’ll review the most critical signs of anaphylactic shock to look out for and what to do if you or someone else is experiencing anaphylaxis.
Important Signs of Anaphylactic Shock
Rapid Onset of Symptoms
Most people who experience anaphylactic shock say that the symptoms came on incredibly fast, not giving them much time to seek help before things were critical. This rapid onset of symptoms is a hallmark of anaphylaxis and indicative of the severity of the impending reaction. If you know you are severely allergic to something and are exposed to it, seek medical attention immediately before the reaction gets out of control.
Respiratory Distress
The most prevalent sign of anaphylactic shock is difficulty breathing. This can include wheezing, choking, and tightness in the chest. This difficulty occurs due to inflammation of the airways which restricts airflow. If the airways swell enough to completely close, death can occur.
Skin Reactions
Many people experience a variety of skin reactions during an anaphylactic episode. Hives, redness, and itching are common and appear suddenly. With extremely severe allergic reactions, the face, lips, eyes, and/or tongue may swell.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
The sudden drop in blood pressure can lead to dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness. The pulse will often become weak, rapid, or thready. Cardiovascular symptoms like these should always call for quick medical attention.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms are not as common as some of the other symptoms listed, but they are still possible, and are more common in children. Severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting can all accompany anaphylactic shock, so always let medical personnel know if you are experiencing these or similar issues.
Feelings of Impending Doom
Even though the feeling of impending doom is a psychological issue, we cannot ignore the prevalence of this sign with most cases of anaphylaxis. Individuals report feeling that something is very wrong, even if they can’t put their finger on exactly what. The lesson here is to trust your instincts if you are feeling this way and seek the advice of a medical professional.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you or someone around you is showing signs of anaphylactic shock, do not hesitate to act. Immediate medical attention is necessary to avoid a fatal outcome. Use an epinephrine auto-injector if available, then call emergency services for transport to the nearest medical facility.
Get Control of Your Allergies
Recognizing the signs of anaphylactic shock can save your life or the life of someone you know. At Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates of Tampa Bay, we prioritize educating patients on the signs of anaphylactic shock so they can act fast if symptoms arise. For more information about allergies, including hay fever, food and drug allergies, and insect allergies, or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (813) 971-9743. We look forward to helping you manage your allergies for a quality life.
