by Megan Worley

Created on: December 02, 2008   Last Updated: December 03, 2008

Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening type of allergic reaction, occurs in response to an allergen such as a bee sting and causes the tissues in the body to release a histamine and other chemicals. The reaction often involves the entire body and can cause death rather quickly.

The causes of anaphylaxis may not even be known to those affected. This condition occurs after the person comes into contact with the allergen whether that is ingestion, inhalation, skin contact or an injection such as from a bee sting. When the person is exposed to the allergen for the very first time the body responds by becoming sensitized and building up IgE antibodies. When the body is exposed to that allergen again the IgE antibodies launch an entire body immune response. The result of that can overwhelm the body resulting in rapid loss of blood pressure and serious strain on the brain and heart.

The symptoms may occur within seconds of contact with the allergen and may include any of the following:

Hives and itching

A running or stuffy nose

Nausea or vomiting

An abnormal heart beat

Red skin, around the contact site and other places

Wheezing

Anxiety and confusion

Muscle cramps and unusual pain

Abnormal breathing

Coughing

Difficulty breathing

Fainting, and light-headedness

Headache

Other signs that are often discovered upon examination by the doctor:

Fluid in the lungs

Low blood pressure

Rapid pulse

Swelling in the throat can be severe enough to block the airway

Anaphylaxis is a serious condition and requires immediate medical treatment and 911 should be called immediately. Once at the hospital the first thing that will be done is a blood test to ensure that it is anaphylaxis compared to other reactions. If it is determined to be anaphylaxis then the person will immediately be given a shot of epinephrine or another type of anti-inflammatory medicine. The person will probably have to stay in the hospital for several hours because the symptoms of anaphylaxis can last for several hours after medicine has been administered.

People who have allergy should make a special effort to avoid food they are allergic to and therefore the possibility of anaphylaxis. Stinging insects should be avoided if possible. If you know you are prone to anaphylaxis then you should wear a medical identification bracelet or carry a card so that people will know what happened if you go into anaphylaxis and are unable to talk. Also let family members know in case of emergency.

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