The following symptoms and complaints may indicate anaphylaxis:
Prodromal signs (precursors) of anaphylaxis:
- Burning sensation on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or genital area.
- Metallic taste
- Cephalgia (headache)
- Anxiety, inner restlessness, disorientation.
Rapid onset of symptoms (a few minutes to hours) after allergen contact.
Symptoms and complaints of anaphylaxis
Skin | Gastrointestinal tract(gastrointestinal tract) | Respiratory tract(respiratory organs) | Cardiovascular system |
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If necessary, see also to “Symptoms – Complaints ” under.
- Food allergy / symptoms – complaints
- Insect bite/symptoms – symptoms
- Drug allergy / symptoms – complaints
Anaphylaxis in insect venom allergy and mastocytosis.
- Absence of angioedema and erythema (areal redness of the skin) (typical).
- Cardiovascular symptoms such as hypotension and loss of consciousness are in the foreground
The following symptoms and complaints may indicate anaphylactic shock:
Leading symptoms
- Hypotension (drop in blood pressure), systolic < 100 mmHg.
- Tachycardia (pulse rate > 100 beats/min).
Possible accompanying symptoms
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath), dysphonia (hoarseness), airway obstruction (airway narrowing).
- Disturbances of consciousness
- Paleness
- Chest tightness (stenocardia/angina pectoris/cardiac congestion: seizure-like thoracic or retrosternal pain (chest pain or pain localized behind the breastbone (sternum)).
- Thirst
- Neck vein congestion
- Skin symptoms such as redness, wheals, etc.
- Cold sweat
- Oliguria – decreased urine output (max 500 ml/day).
- Palpitations (heart stuttering)
- Vertigo (dizziness)
- Tachypnea? increased respiratory rate
- Central cyanosis? Blue discoloration of the skin and central mucous membranes/tongue.
The major risk factors for a severe allergic reaction are:
- Older age
- Concomitant mastocytosis – disease characterized by excessive proliferation of mast cells; mast cells are cells of the body’s defense system that have stored messenger substances, including histamine.
- Medications: Beta blockers, ACE inhibitors.