Anaphylaxis
can produce shock and life-threatening respiratory distress.
It can occur within seconds or minutes in sensitive individuals
who are exposed to a specific allergy causing substance. Almost
any allergy-causing substance can cause the response including
insect venom (see Insect
Bites and Stings), pollens, latex, certain foods and drugs.
Some people have anaphylactic reactions of unknown cause.
If you are extremely sensitive, you may notice severe hives
and severe swelling of your eyes or lips or inside your throat,
which causes difficult breathing and shock. Dizziness, mental
confusion, abdominal cramping, nausea or vomiting also may
accompany a severe reaction.
If you know
your specific allergies, carry medication with you as an antidote
to an allergic reaction. Epinephrine is the most commonly
used drug. The effects of the medication are only temporary,
however, and you must seek further medical attention immediately.
If you observe
an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis:
Call 911 
in the U.S. & Canada. (For other countries, see our First
Aid page.)
Check
to see whether the person is carrying special medication (to
inhale, swallow or inject) to counter the effects of the allergic
attack. Use it, don't
be scared; the directions are on the injector, or on the medication,
or inhaler.
If the person is no longer breathing and or
has no pulse, start CPR.
