Allergies Health Center
Understanding Anaphylaxis - Symptoms
What Are the Symptoms of Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis may begin with severe itching of the eyes or face, followed by these symptoms, usually within minutes of exposure to the allergen:
- Swelling of the throat, lips, and tongue.
- Difficulty breathing, caused by swelling of the throat and constricting of the airways.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Hives.
- Generalized flushing (redness and warmth) of the skin.
- Abdominal cramps and nausea.
- Increased heart rate.
- Sudden weakness.
- Drop in blood pressure.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Swelling throughout the body.
- Shock.
- Unconsciousness.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by
Louise Chang, MD on December 17, 2008
© 2008 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

