Anaphylaxis

What are the triggers?

Some of the more common triggers (allergens) that can lead to anaphylaxis include:

Food

Any food can be a trigger. However, the foods that account for about 90% of allergic reactions are shellfish, fish, eggs, milk, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts (such as almonds, cashews, pecans and walnuts), sesame and soy.

Insect bites and stings

Including bees, wasps, jack jumper ants, green ants and fire ants. Ticks can also trigger anaphylaxis.

Medications

Some prescription drugs such as penicillin, sulphur, antibiotics, Codeine or Morphine. Over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin and herbal preparations can also be triggers.

What are the signs and symptoms?

• Difficulty and/or noisy breathing
• Wheezing or persistent coughing
• Swelling of the face, tongue or throat
• Difficulty talking and/or sound hoarse when speaking
• Persistent dizziness or becoming unconscious
• Abdominal pain and vomiting
• Breaking out in hives, welts or redness on the body
• Young children may become pale and feel weak