ALLERGIC REACTION
A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can be life-threatening. It is caused by exposure to insect and animal venoms (such as wasp or jellyfish stings), plant products, medications, or any other agent to which the victim’s immune system has been previously sensitized.
Symptoms include low blood pressure (shock); difficulty breathing (severe asthma) with wheezing; swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and vocal cords (leading to airway obstruction); itching; hives (red, raised skin welts that may occur singly or in large patches); nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; abdominal pain; seizures; and abnormal heart rhythms. Any or all of these symptoms may be present in varying severity. The most common life-threatening problem is respiratory distress. Facial swelling indicates that the airway may soon become involved. Be ready at all times to protect and support the airway.
