Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The allergens that most commonly cause anaphylaxis are foods, insect stings, medications, and latex. In addition, virtually all vaccines have the potential to trigger anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis causes the immune system to release a flood of chemicals that can cause shock, a sudden drop in blood pressure and a narrowing of airways.
If anaphylaxis is not treated immediately, it can be fatal.
Symptoms
Symptoms of anaphylaxis usually start within minutes of coming into contact with the allergen, but in some cases it may take more than an hour to notice the symptoms.
Common symptoms include skin reactions like hives, pale skin, itching, and flushing; constriction of airways and a swollen tongue or throat, which can cause wheezing and trouble breathing; weak and rapid pulse, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, dizziness or fainting, low blood pressure.
Recovery
Anaphylaxis requires an injection of epinephrine and a follow-up trip to the emergency room. If epinephrine is not available, the patient must go the emergency room immediately. If anaphylaxis is not treated right away, it can be fatal.
Cause
People with allergies, asthma, or a family history of anaphylaxis have a higher risk of anaphylaxis. People who have experienced anaphylaxis once also have an increased risk of another anaphylactic reaction.
For children, the most common anaphylaxis triggers are foods like peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and milk. In addition to these foods, common anaphylaxis triggers for adults include antibiotics, insect stings, and latex.
Virtually all vaccines have the potential to trigger anaphylaxis in children or adults.
Contact Us
If you or your child have been diagnosed with anaphylaxis after a vaccine, contact our office for a free consultation with one of our experienced vaccine team members. You may be eligible for compensation from the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
Learn more about anaphylaxis:
- Anaphylaxis description from the Mayo Clinic
- Anaphylaxis description from the National Institute of Health
- Anaphylaxis description from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology