Anaphylaxis

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Anaphylaxis is a serious and potentially fatal allergic reaction that can progress rapidly. It typically causes more than one of the following: an itchy rash, throat closing due to swelling that can obstruct or stop breathing; severe tongue swelling that can also interfere with or stop breathing; shortness of breath, vomiting, lightheadedness, loss of consciousness, low blood pressure, and medical shock. These symptoms typically start in minutes to hours and then increase very rapidly to life-threatening levels. Urgent medical treatment is required to prevent serious harm and death, even if the patient has used an epinephrine autoinjector or has taken other medications in response, and even if symptoms appear to be improving. Common causes include allergies to insect bites and stings, allergies to foods—including nuts, peanuts, milk, fish, eggs; allergies to medications – including some antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); or allergies to anaesthetics or latex...

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