Anaphylactic Shock Symptoms
A history of asthma or allergies can make a person more susceptible to anaphylactic reaction, which can produce many symptoms (flushed or pale skin, rapid pulse), possibly leading to anaphylactic shock. And if you have had an anaphylactic reaction before, the next reaction is likely to be worse than the first, according to the Mayo Clinic (see link in Resources).
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Anaphylactic Shock Defined
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According to the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, anaphylactic shock is the serious reaction---which can be fatal---that is experienced when an individual comes into contact (for the second time) with an antigen that has produced an allergic reaction in them once before.
Symptoms
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The affected individual can exhibit any number of symptoms that can include skin reactions, respiratory symptoms, cardiovascular changes, digestive disruptions, and even fainting and dizziness. In addition, symptoms can progress to the point of causing death (breathing cessation, heart stops beating), if immediate medical attention is not sought when the symptoms worsen.
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Skin Reaction Symptoms
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While some symptoms may not occur with anaphylaxis, skin reactions generally do, according to the Mayo Clinic. These reactions can consist of hives---on the face or the body, or both---itching, pale skin, or flushed skin.
Respiratory Symptoms
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One of the more dangerous symptoms, breathing difficulties and closing air passageways, can be life-threatening if emergency medical attention is not sought immediately. Sometimes this begins with swelling of the face, throat, tongue, or lips. However, if swelling continues, or is decreasing air flow in any way, seek emergency medical assistance or call 911.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
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A racing pulse is also a possible symptom of an allergic reaction. But a low pulse can be one too, and may prove more serious, since it can lead to the heart actually stopping altogether. Fainting and dizziness can occur due to heartbeat and pulse rate changes after an allergic reaction.
Digestive Symptoms
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Initially the individual experiencing anaphylactic shock may be nauseous but that can progress to vomiting. Diarrhea may also be experienced as well. Since the allergic reaction may or may not have been due to a food consumed---or a medication taken---digestive symptoms may or may not occur.
Symptom Reaction Time
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According to the Mayo Clinic, an individual who is experiencing anaphylactic shock symptoms will likely do so with 30 minutes of their contact with the antigen. This helps to know what has prompted the allergic reaction, if prior allergy testing has been unsuccessful. However, there are rare instances when the allergic response is not experienced within that 30-minute time window.
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