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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Disease > A > Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Anaphylactic reaction; Anaphylactic shock; Shock - anaphylactic

Symptoms

Note: Symptoms develop rapidly, often within seconds or minutes.

Signs and Tests

Examination of the skin may show hives and angioedema (swelling of the eyes or face). The skin may be blue (cyanosis) from lack of oxygen or may be pale from shock. Angioedema in the throat may be severe enough to block the airway.

Listening to the lungs with a stethoscope (auscultation) may reveal wheezing or indicate fluid (pulmonary edema). The pulse is rapid, and blood pressure may be low. Weakness, pale skin, heart arrhythmias, mental confusion, and other signs may indicate shock.

Testing for the specific allergen that caused anaphylaxis (if the cause is not obvious) is postponed until after treatment.

Ency. home > Disease > A > Anaphylaxis

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