Key facts:
- A severe life threatening allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include itching and hives over large areas of the body, swelling in the throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, dizziness, stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea.
- In severe cases, a rapid fall in blood pressure may result in shock and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency, and may be fatal.
- Epinephrine is the gold standard of treatment in the event of a severe reaction. It is available by prescription as an auto injector.
- Food is the leading cause of anaphylaxis in children.
Statistics:
- Penicillin is a common cause of drug allergy. Anaphylactic reactions to penicillin cause 400 deaths.
- Food-related anaphylaxis causes approximately 30.000 emergency department visits and 150 deaths each year.
- A severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis occurs in 0.5 to 5% of the U.S. population as a result of insect stings.
- Approximately 220 cases of anaphylaxis and 3 deaths per year are due to latex allergy.
New Research:
- Emergency department treatment of anaphylaxis (JACI Feb. 2004; Camargo, MD et al).
- Epidemiology of Anaphylaxis among children and adolescents (JACI March 2004; Bohlke, MD et. al).
- First-aid treatment of anaphylaxis to food: Focus on epinephrine (JACI May 2004; Estelle Simons, MD, FAAAA).
*DISCLAIMER
This site is not meant to diagnose your condition. The information here does not necessarily pertain to all individuals and should not replace the advice of your physician. Please contact your doctor with any questions.