Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a very serious and possibly life-threatening allergic reaction. This severe allergic reaction occurs when the immune system releases a flood of chemicals, such as histamines when exposed to seemingly non-threatening substances.

In severe anaphylaxis cases, you may experience anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal if not treated immediately. The board-certified allergists at the Center for Allergy & Asthma of Georgia are highly trained in treating anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock. Our allergy doctors work closely with patients to determine the causes of anaphylaxis and appropriate life-saving treatment.

What Causes Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is often caused by certain foods, such as shellfish. Other common causes of this severe allergic reaction include:

• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Peanuts and tree nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, cashew nuts, walnuts, and Brazil nuts
• Latex
• Insect stings, mainly wasps, bees and ants
• Certain medications
• Exercise following consumption of trigger foods

Please speak to one of our board-certified allergists at the Center for Allergy & Asthma of Georgia in Metro Atlanta for further allergy testing if you suspect that you may have an allergy to any of these common anaphylaxis triggers.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Severe eye or facial itching
• Cramps
• Vomiting
• Angioedema
• Breathing and swallowing difficulties
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Hives

Diagnosis and Treatment for Anaphylaxis in Metro Atlanta

Our highly qualified medical doctors at the Center for Allergy & Asthma of Georgia diagnose anaphylaxis based upon the symptoms you are experiencing, and by studying your history of allergic reactions. If you currently have allergies to the triggers of anaphylaxis, our doctors may recommend a skin test to confirm your triggers.

Our board-certified allergists commonly prescribe epinephrine for patients experiencing anaphylaxis symptoms. Antihistamines and steroids may also be prescribed, but these medications are typically used following an epinephrine injection in cases of severe anaphylaxis. Our highly qualified team of medical doctors work with you to ensure that you have the proper treatment for anaphylaxis.

Speak to a Atlanta Metro Allergy and Asthma Specialist Today

At the Center for Allergy & Asthma of Georgia, our board-certified allergists provide treatment for both anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock. If you believe you may be suffering from anaphylaxis, please contact us via phone at (770) 459-0620 or online via our patient contact form.