What are common signs of anaphylaxis?

The common signs of anaphylaxis include swelling, difficulty breathing, and the presence of a rash or hives. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs rapidly after exposure to an allergen.

Swelling, often referred to as angioedema, can affect the face, mouth, and throat, which can lead to difficulty breathing due to airway obstruction. The rash or hives, which are indicative of an allergic reaction, often presents as itchy red welts on the skin. These symptoms signal an urgent medical situation where immediate treatment, typically an injection of epinephrine, is necessary to prevent further complications and ensure the person’s safety.

Other options describe symptoms that are not typically associated with anaphylaxis. For instance, fever and headache can be related to various other medical issues but are not characteristic of an anaphylactic response. Understanding these distinctions is important for recognizing and appropriately responding to anaphylaxis.