The most common causes of anaphylactic reactions include:
- certain foods (including peanuts, tree nuts or shellfish). However, all foods can potentially cause anaphylaxis
- insect stings
- drugs and contrast agents (used in some x-ray tests), particularly those given by injection
Symptoms of anaphylaxis
Any or all of the following symptoms may be present during an anaphylaxis reaction:
- Swelling of tongue and/or throat
- Difficulty in swallowing or speaking
- Vocal changes (hoarse voice)
- Wheeze or persistent cough or severe asthma
- Difficult or noisy breathing
- Stomach cramps or vomiting after an insect sting
- Dizziness / collapse / loss of consciousness (due to a drop in blood pressure) ( floppiness in babies).