Understanding Anaphylaxis - Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms?

Anaphylaxis may begin with severe itching of the eyes or face, followed by these symptoms, usually within minutes of exposure to the allergen:

• Swelling of the throat, lips and tongue.
• Difficulty breathing, caused by swelling of the throat and constricting of the airways.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Hives.
• Generalized flushing (redness and warmth) of the skin.
• Abdominal cramps and nausea.
• Increased heart rate.
• Sudden weakness.
• Drop in blood pressure.
• Vomiting or diarrhea.
• Swelling throughout the body.
• Shock.
• Unconsciousness.