Q. What are some signs of a serious allergic reaction?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Seconmedic Expert

A serious allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis, can be a life-threatening emergency. If not treated promptly, it can lead to shock and even death. The most common signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

Hives or welts - An itching rash often in the form of raised bumps on the skin that may appear anywhere on the body.

Swelling – This often appears first around the face and mouth but may spread quickly to other areas such as hands, feet or abdomen. It is usually accompanied by itching which is why it's sometimes called “itches angioedema”
Wheezing or difficulty breathing - A whistling sound during inhale/exhale when breathing due to narrowing of airway passages making it difficult for air to pass through
Coughing
Chest tightness and chest pain
Flushing/redness of skin - Often seen over large areas like cheeks or chest
7 Diarrhea or vomiting   8 Feelings of faintness/weakness 9 Low blood pressure causing dizziness, confusion (consider rule out fainting) 10 Rapid heartbeat with palpitations 11 Swollen tongue 12 Loss of consciousness (fainting) 13 Anxiety 14 Unconsciousness

If you experience any combination of these symptoms after exposure to something you are allergic to, seek medical attention immediately! Anaphylaxis needs urgent treatment so time is very important in responding appropriately with an appropriate course before worsening your condition further!

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