Anaphylaxis can produce shock and life-threatening respiratory distress. It can occur within seconds or minutes in sensitive individuals who are exposed to a specific allergy causing substance. Almost any allergy-causing substance can cause the response including insect venom (see Insect Bites and Stings), pollens, latex, certain foods and drugs. Some people have anaphylactic reactions of unknown cause. If you are extremely sensitive, you may notice severe hives and severe swelling of your eyes or lips or inside your throat, which causes difficult breathing and shock. Dizziness, mental confusion, abdominal cramping, nausea or vomiting also may accompany a severe reaction.

If you know your specific allergies, carry medication with you as an antidote to an allergic reaction. Epinephrine is the most commonly used drug. The effects of the medication are only temporary, however, and you must seek further medical attention immediately.

If you observe an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis:

• Call 911 in the U.S. & Canada. (For other countries, see our First Aid page.)
• Check to see whether the person is carrying special medication (to inhale, swallow or inject) to counter the effects of the allergic attack. Use it, don’t be scared; the directions are on the injector, or on the medication, or inhaler.
• If the person is no longer breathing and or has no pulse, start CPR.