Anaphylaxis signs and symptoms

Allergy versus anaphylaxis

An allergic reaction occurs when our immune system reacts to something that is usually considered harmless, such as a certain food, pollen, dust mites, insect bites or latex.1

Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction and can be life-threatening, because it involves the respiratory system (our ability to breathe) and the cardiovascular system (heart and blood pressure), and it should always be treated as an emergency.1,2

Mild to moderate allergic reaction

A mild to moderate reaction may include one or more of the following symptoms:7

Swelling of lips,
face and eyes

Hives or welts

Tingling mouth

Abdominal pain,
vomiting

(these are signs of
anaphylaxis or severe
allergic reaction for
insect allergy)

Anaphylaxis (Severe Allergic Reaction)

Anaphylaxis or a severe allergic reaction may involve the symptoms above but the reaction involves
the respiratory and/or cardiovascular system.2

The following symptoms below indicate anaphylaxis:2,3

Difficulty/noisy
breathing

Swelling of
tongue

Swelling/tightness
in the throat

Difficulty talking
and/or hoarse voice

Wheeze or
persistent cough

Persistent dizziness
or collapse

Loss of consciousness and/or collapse or becoming pale and floppy (in young children)

These are just some of the symptoms that may be caused by an allergy or during an anaphylactic reaction.
A person may have one, some, or all of these symptoms.

Use EpiPen® Auto-Injector if you're experiencing any of the signs and symptoms and call 111 for an ambulance.

Warning signs

Sometimes, before an anaphylactic reaction occurs, a person experiences milder symptoms. These may include tingling of the skin or abdominal pain and vomiting. These early symptoms can be a useful warning that exposure to a trigger has occurred, and that treatment may be needed.4 Speak to your doctor about the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) and learn the warning signs for you or your child.

If you're unsure if anaphylaxis is occurring, it's better to use EpiPen® Auto-Injector than not to use it.6,7