An allergy is your body’s reaction to things in the environment. You can be allergic to certain animals or foods, to chemicals, to insect stings, or to pollen in the air. The substances that cause allergies are called allergens. Some allergies are so mild that you may not even know that you have one. But some allergic reactions can be so severe that they put your life in danger. When you go into allergic shock, or anaphylaxis, your whole body reacts to the allergen that affects you.

Causes

Symptoms

Prevention

First Aid

• Bites: Insect and Spider 
• Hives
• Seizures
• Shortness of Breath

What to do About Allergic Shock
Mild allergic reaction that resembles a cold
Rash accompanying the allergy
Runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing that last longer than 10 to 14 days
Rapid pulse, flushed face or skin, bluish color around lips*
Severe gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea*
Insect sting causing a widespread rash*
Allergic reaction including chest tightness, wheezing, and a hivelike rash
Choking or difficulty swallowing or breathing*
Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat*

*If these symptoms occur within 1 to 15 minutes after exposure to allergen, remember: Allergic reactions are potentially emergency conditions; if you are concerned, call your doctor immediately or go to an urgent care center or an emergency room.

Resources

• Park Nicollet Urgent Care
• To buy publications: Park Nicollet HealthSource®
• The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN)