Anaphylaxis history and symptoms

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1], Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Dushka Riaz, MD

Overview

The hallmark of anaphylaxis is to find a possible causative allergen. Often the history may rely on friends and family who can help with the temporal relationship between symptoms and the inciting event.

History and Symptoms

Symptoms of anaphylaxis are related to the action of (IgE) and other anaphylatoxins, which act to release histamine and other mediator substances from mast cells (degranulation). In addition to other effects, histamine induces vasodilation of arterioles and constriction of bronchioles in the lungs, also known as bronchospasm (constriction of the airways).

History

Patients with anaphylaxis may have a positive history of:

• Abdominal pain
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Palpitations
• Vomiting

Common Symptoms

Common symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Urticaria (hives)
• Respiratory distress
• Itching
• Nasal congestion
• Flushed appearance
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Stridor
• Rhinitis
• Dizziness
• Confusion

Less Common Symptoms

Less common symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Polyuria
• Slurred speech
• Tears (due to angioedema and stress)
• Unconsciousness
• Encephalitis
• Fainting
• Angioedema (swelling of the lips, face, neck and throat)
• Anxiety

The time between ingestion of the allergen and anaphylaxis symptoms can vary for some patients depending on the amount of allergen consumed and their reaction time. Symptoms can appear immediately or can be delayed by half an hour to several hours after ingestion. However, symptoms of anaphylaxis usually appear very quickly once they do begin.