Anaphylaxis: How to Recognize and Treat It What is anaphylaxis? Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that may involve the entire body. It can result in trouble breathing, loss of consciousness and even death. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment Anaphylaxis can occur in some people after they are exposed to a substance to which they are severely allergic. The most common substances that trigger anaphylaxis are foods, medications, and insect stings. It has been estimated that up to 15% of the population is at risk for anaphylaxis. Mechanisms Anaphylaxis is triggered the same way other allergies are: the immune system—which serves as the body's defense against potentially dangerous substances such as germs—overreacts to a harmless substance (an allergen) and in that process can damage the body. As part of the normal immune response, proteins called antibodies are produced that can detect and help destroy “invaders” in the body.  When allergens first enter the body of a person predisposed to allergies, the immune system produces the allergen-specific IgE antibodies. The IgE antibodies attach themselves to the surface of cells called mast cells. The next time that allergic individual comes into contact with the allergen, the IgE identifies it and quickly initiates the release of chemicals - such as histamine - from the mast cells. These potent chemicals cause the symptoms seen in allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis is a “systemic reaction,” which means that various parts of the body are affected that are a distance from the allergen's initial entry site (e.g., a sting site for insects or the stomach for foods). Symptoms of anaphylaxis can vary from mild to severe and are potentially deadly. Here is a [...]