For some people with severe allergies, when they’re exposed to something they’re allergic to, they may experience a potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. As a result, their immune system releases chemicals that flood the body. This can lead to anaphylactic shock. When your body goes into anaphylactic shock, your blood pressure suddenly drops and your airways narrow, possibly blocking normal breathing. This condition is dangerous. If it isn’t treated immediately, it can result in serious complications and even be fatal.

You’ll experience symptoms of anaphylaxis before anaphylactic shock sets in. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

skin reactions such as hives, flushed skin, or paleness suddenly feeling too warm feeling like you have a lump in your throat or difficulty swallowing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea abdominal pain a weak and rapid pulse runny nose and sneezing swollen tongue or lips wheezing or difficulty breathing a sense that something is wrong with your body tingling hands, feet, mouth, or scalp

If you think you’re experiencing anaphylaxis, seek medical attention immediately. If anaphylaxis has progressed to anaphylactic shock, the symptoms include:

struggling to breathe dizziness confusion sudden feeling of weakness loss of consciousness

Last Updated on: Jun 18, 2025