It's that time of year again: the trees are blooming, the grass is growing, and your allergies are acting up. But with so many different types of allergies out there, which ones are the worst?

We decided to take a look at the data to find out. We looked at the prevalence of different allergies, the severity of their symptoms, and the impact they have on people's lives. And we came up with a list of the five worst allergies to have.

What are the Most Dangerous Allergies to Have?

Determining the "worst" allergy is difficult, as severity depends on individual reactions and access to medical care. However, some allergies pose significantly greater risks due to the potential for severe, life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis. These allergies often involve systemic reactions affecting multiple organ systems.

1. Food Allergies: Peanuts, Tree Nuts, and Seafood

Food allergies, particularly to peanuts, tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, cashews), and shellfish, are extremely common and can be incredibly dangerous. These allergens are often potent, causing severe reactions even with minimal exposure. The proteins in these foods are highly stable and difficult to avoid completely, even with careful food preparation. Cross-contamination is a major concern, and accidental ingestion can lead to anaphylaxis, requiring immediate epinephrine administration.

2. Insect Sting Allergies (Bees, Wasps, Hornets)

Allergies to insect stings, especially from bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets, can be life-threatening. Unlike some food allergies, a single sting can trigger anaphylaxis, potentially leading to respiratory distress, cardiovascular collapse, and even death. The risk increases with multiple stings or for individuals with a history of severe reactions. Desensitization therapy is available for individuals with severe allergies to help build tolerance to the venom.

3. Drug Allergies: Penicillin and other Antibiotics

Drug allergies can be severe, and some drugs like penicillin and other antibiotics are known to cause life-threatening reactions in susceptible individuals. These reactions can range from mild skin rashes to anaphylaxis. Because antibiotics are frequently prescribed, the risk of encountering this allergy is relatively high. It's crucial to inform healthcare providers of any known drug allergies before receiving medication.

4. Latex Allergy

Latex allergy is particularly problematic for healthcare workers and individuals who frequently come into contact with latex products like gloves and medical devices. Latex allergy can manifest in a range of symptoms, from mild skin irritation to severe respiratory distress and anaphylaxis. Avoiding latex exposure is vital for individuals with a latex allergy, and alternatives like nitrile gloves are often used.

5. Allergic Reactions to Medications in General

While specific medications like penicillin are highlighted, it is crucial to understand that allergic reactions to various pharmaceuticals are a serious concern. From anti-inflammatory drugs to pain relievers, even common medications can trigger unexpected and severe responses in vulnerable individuals. Always disclose all medication allergies to your doctor or pharmacist to avoid potential risks.

Allergen Category	Severity	Potential Reactions	Treatment
Food (Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Shellfish)	High	Anaphylaxis, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, swelling	Epinephrine, antihistamines, supportive care
Insect Stings (Bees, Wasps)	High	Anaphylaxis, respiratory distress, cardiovascular collapse	Epinephrine, antihistamines, supportive care
Medications (Penicillin, etc.)	Variable	Rash, hives, swelling, anaphylaxis	Discontinuation of medication, antihistamines, supportive care
Latex	Variable	Skin irritation, hives, respiratory distress, anaphylaxis	Avoidance of latex, antihistamines, supportive care

What are the Most Dangerous Allergies to Have?

Determining the "worst" allergy is difficult, as severity depends on individual reactions and access to medical care. However, some allergies pose significantly greater risks due to the potential for severe, life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis. These allergies often involve systemic reactions affecting multiple organ systems.

1. Food Allergies: Peanuts, Tree Nuts, and Seafood

Food allergies, particularly to peanuts, tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, cashews), and shellfish, are extremely common and can be incredibly dangerous. These allergens are often potent, causing severe reactions even with minimal exposure. The proteins in these foods are highly stable and difficult to avoid completely, even with careful food preparation. Cross-contamination is a major concern, and accidental ingestion can lead to anaphylaxis, requiring immediate epinephrine administration.

2. Insect Sting Allergies (Bees, Wasps, Hornets)

Allergies to insect stings, especially from bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets, can be life-threatening. Unlike some food allergies, a single sting can trigger anaphylaxis, potentially leading to respiratory distress, cardiovascular collapse, and even death. The risk increases with multiple stings or for individuals with a history of severe reactions. Desensitization therapy is available for individuals with severe allergies to help build tolerance to the venom.

3. Drug Allergies: Penicillin and other Antibiotics

Drug allergies can be severe, and some drugs like penicillin and other antibiotics are known to cause life-threatening reactions in susceptible individuals. These reactions can range from mild skin rashes to anaphylaxis. Because antibiotics are frequently prescribed, the risk of encountering this allergy is relatively high. It's crucial to inform healthcare providers of any known drug allergies before receiving medication.

4. Latex Allergy

Latex allergy is particularly problematic for healthcare workers and individuals who frequently come into contact with latex products like gloves and medical devices. Latex allergy can manifest in a range of symptoms, from mild skin irritation to severe respiratory distress and anaphylaxis. Avoiding latex exposure is vital for individuals with a latex allergy, and alternatives like nitrile gloves are often used.

5. Allergic Reactions to Medications in General

While specific medications like penicillin are highlighted, it is crucial to understand that allergic reactions to various pharmaceuticals are a serious concern. From anti-inflammatory drugs to pain relievers, even common medications can trigger unexpected and severe responses in vulnerable individuals. Always disclose all medication allergies to your doctor or pharmacist to avoid potential risks.

Allergen Category	Severity	Potential Reactions	Treatment
Food (Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Shellfish)	High	Anaphylaxis, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, swelling	Epinephrine, antihistamines, supportive care
Insect Stings (Bees, Wasps)	High	Anaphylaxis, respiratory distress, cardiovascular collapse	Epinephrine, antihistamines, supportive care
Medications (Penicillin, etc.)	Variable	Rash, hives, swelling, anaphylaxis	Discontinuation of medication, antihistamines, supportive care
Latex	Variable	Skin irritation, hives, respiratory distress, anaphylaxis	Avoidance of latex, antihistamines, supportive care

What is the most severe allergy?

There is no single "most severe" allergy, as the severity of an allergic reaction depends on several factors, including the allergen, the individual's sensitivity, the amount of allergen exposure, and the location and speed of the reaction. Some allergies are simply more likely to cause life-threatening reactions than others. Anaphylaxis is the most severe type of allergic reaction, regardless of the specific allergen that triggers it. It's a sudden, potentially fatal, systemic reaction that can involve multiple body systems. The speed of onset and the severity of symptoms are key indicators of severity. A fast, intense response poses a higher risk.

What triggers Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can be triggered by a wide variety of allergens. While any allergen can, theoretically, cause anaphylaxis, some are more frequently implicated. Food allergies (such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish) are common culprits, as are insect stings (bees, wasps, hornets, ants), and certain medications (penicillin being a notable example). Less common triggers include latex, certain dyes, and even exercise.

1. Food allergens: Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, fish, shellfish, wheat.
2. Insect stings: Bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, fire ants.
3. Medications: Penicillin, other antibiotics, NSAIDs.

Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis symptoms can vary greatly, but they often involve multiple body systems. The onset is usually rapid, often within minutes of exposure. Early symptoms might include itching, hives (urticaria), swelling (angioedema), especially around the face, lips, and throat. More severe symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, a drop in blood pressure (hypotension), dizziness, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness. The severity and speed of these symptoms are what defines its life-threatening nature.

1. Skin: Itching, hives, flushing, swelling.
2. Respiratory: Wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing.
3. Cardiovascular: Low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, dizziness, fainting.
4. Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea.

Treatment for Anaphylaxis

Immediate treatment is crucial for anaphylaxis. The primary treatment is an injection of epinephrine (adrenaline), often delivered via an auto-injector like an EpiPen. This medication helps to counteract the effects of the allergic reaction, improving breathing and blood pressure. Further treatment may involve oxygen, intravenous fluids, and medications to manage airway swelling. Seeking immediate medical attention is paramount as delays can be fatal.

1. Epinephrine injection (EpiPen): The first-line treatment.
2. Oxygen therapy: To improve breathing.
3. Intravenous fluids: To maintain blood pressure.
4. Intubation/mechanical ventilation: If breathing is severely compromised.

Preventing Anaphylaxis

Preventing anaphylaxis involves careful avoidance of known allergens, especially for individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions. This may require reading food labels carefully, carrying epinephrine auto-injectors at all times, and wearing medical alert identification. Allergy testing can help to identify specific allergens. Working with an allergist to develop a personalized management plan is essential. Emergency preparedness, including having a plan for administering epinephrine and seeking medical care, is critical.

1. Allergen avoidance: Careful attention to food labels, environmental controls.
2. Epinephrine auto-injector: Carrying and knowing how to use it.
3. Medical alert identification: Informing medical personnel of allergies.
4. Allergy testing and desensitization: Identifying and possibly mitigating reactions.

Living with Severe Allergies

Living with severe allergies can be challenging, requiring constant vigilance and preparedness. Individuals must learn to manage their allergies effectively to minimize their risk. Education about the specific allergens, symptoms, and treatment is crucial. Having a strong support system and access to appropriate medical care is also essential. Regular follow-up appointments with allergists ensure ongoing management and adaptations to evolving conditions.

1. Self-management education: Understanding triggers, symptoms, and treatment.
2. Support network: Family, friends, and medical professionals.
3. Regular medical care: Check-ups and adjustments to treatment plans.
4. Emergency preparedness: Having a plan and communicating it to others.

What are the deadliest allergies in the world?

There's no single definitive ranking of "deadliest" allergies, as severity depends on individual factors like the amount of allergen exposure, the person's sensitivity, and the speed of medical intervention. However, certain allergies are statistically more likely to cause severe, life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) than others. These are typically allergies to substances that trigger a rapid and overwhelming immune response.

1. Food Allergies

Food allergies are a leading cause of anaphylaxis, particularly in children. Peanuts, tree nuts (such as walnuts, cashews, almonds), milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish are among the most common and dangerous food allergens. Even trace amounts can be lethal for severely allergic individuals. The severity of reaction varies widely; a mild reaction might cause hives and itching, while a severe reaction can lead to difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a dramatic drop in blood pressure.

1. Peanut allergy: Often associated with severe reactions and lifelong persistence.
2. Milk allergy: Can manifest in infants and young children, but many outgrow it.
3. Shellfish allergy: Often develops later in life and tends to be persistent.

2. Insect Sting Allergies

Allergies to insect stings, particularly from bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets, are a serious concern. The venom injected during a sting can trigger an immediate and severe allergic response, including anaphylaxis. The risk is higher for individuals who have experienced previous stings and those with a history of other allergies. The location of the sting is also relevant; stings to the mouth or throat are particularly dangerous due to the risk of airway obstruction.

1. Hymenoptera venom: This encompasses the venom of bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets.
2. Multiple stings: Even those without a pre-existing allergy can experience severe reactions if stung multiple times.
3. Location of sting: Stings in the throat or mouth are especially dangerous.

3. Medication Allergies

Many medications, including some common over-the-counter and prescription drugs, can trigger allergic reactions. Penicillin and other antibiotics are notorious for causing severe allergic reactions, ranging from mild rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis. This type of allergy can be unpredictable, and even a small amount of the medication can lead to a catastrophic event. Careful medical history review is crucial before administering any medication.

1. Penicillin: One of the most common causes of drug-induced anaphylaxis.
2. NSAIDS: Certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can trigger allergic reactions.
3. Sulfonamides: These antibiotics and related drugs are also known for causing allergy.

4. Latex Allergy

Latex allergy is a reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex. This allergy is particularly prevalent among healthcare workers and individuals with frequent exposure to latex gloves, medical equipment, and other latex products. Severe reactions can involve skin rashes, breathing difficulties, and anaphylaxis. The allergy can be contact-induced (skin contact) or inhalational (exposure to latex particles in the air).

1. Type I hypersensitivity: This is the most severe type of latex allergy, causing immediate and potentially life-threatening reactions.
2. Contact dermatitis: A less severe reaction, but still causing skin irritation and inflammation.
3. Occupational exposure: Healthcare workers are at particularly high risk of developing latex allergy.

5. Drug-Induced Anaphylaxis

Beyond specific medications, some drugs can trigger a rapid, systemic allergic reaction leading to anaphylaxis. While certain medications like penicillin are known triggers, many others can also cause this potentially fatal reaction. This type of anaphylaxis is not necessarily a true allergy, but rather an idiosyncratic reaction where the body's immune system responds abnormally to a drug. This is unpredictable and highlights the importance of careful monitoring during drug administration and prompt treatment if anaphylaxis occurs.

1. Radiocontrast agents: Used in medical imaging, these agents can cause anaphylaxis.
2. Chemotherapy drugs: Some chemotherapy medications are associated with allergic reactions.
3. Aspirin: Although not as common, aspirin and other NSAIDS can cause anaphylaxis.

What is the rarest allergy to get?

Pinpointing the single rarest allergy is difficult due to several factors. Allergy prevalence varies geographically, diagnostic methods differ, and underreporting is common, particularly for less well-known allergies. Therefore, identifying the absolute rarest is challenging. However, allergies to certain substances are exceedingly uncommon and often only documented in a small number of cases worldwide. These often involve reactions to very specific proteins or components within certain foods, medications, or environmental substances. There isn't a definitive answer, but some contenders for extremely rare allergies include allergies to specific components within certain meats (like alpha-gal syndrome), rare pollens, or certain types of insect venom. The rarity stems from a combination of factors, including the unusual nature of the allergen, low exposure rates, and individual genetic predispositions required to trigger a reaction. Accurate data collection and more extensive research are needed for a truly comprehensive understanding of the frequency of different allergies.

Allergic Reactions to Specific Meat Proteins

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a notable example of a rare meat allergy. It's a delayed reaction to a carbohydrate molecule (alpha-gal) found in the meat of mammals. Symptoms usually manifest hours after consuming red meat, and the allergy can be life-threatening in severe cases. The precise rarity of AGS is still being studied, but its unusual mechanism and relatively recent discovery contribute to its classification as rare.

1. Delayed onset of symptoms: This distinguishes it from typical immediate food allergies.
2. Tick bite connection: The allergy often develops after a tick bite, suggesting a possible immune system trigger.
3. Impact on diet: A diagnosis dramatically alters the affected individual's diet, requiring avoidance of red meat and many other mammal-derived products.

Allergies to Rare Pollens

Many people suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by pollens from common plants like ragweed or grasses. However, allergies to pollens from rarer plants or specific pollen proteins are much less frequent. These allergies might only affect individuals living in particular geographic regions where the rare plant species thrives. Diagnosing these rarer pollen allergies often requires specialized allergy testing and careful consideration of the patient's environment and exposure history.

1. Geographic restriction: The rarity often stems from limited geographic distribution of the pollen source.
2. Diagnostic challenges: Identifying the specific allergen can be difficult due to limited knowledge and testing resources.
3. Cross-reactivity potential: Some rare pollen allergies might show cross-reactivity with other, more common allergens, making diagnosis more complex.

Insect Venom Allergies beyond Bees and Wasps

While allergies to bee and wasp stings are relatively common, reactions to the venom of less common insects are much rarer. These might include allergies to ant venom, certain species of spiders, or other stinging insects. The rarity of these allergies is linked to both lower exposure rates and a less-studied allergenic profile of these venoms.

1. Low exposure: Limited contact with these insects translates to fewer opportunities for sensitization.
2. Venom complexity: The exact components causing allergic reactions in these venoms are less well-defined.
3. Treatment challenges: Desensitization therapies may not be readily available for all rare insect venom allergies.

Allergies to Specific Medications

Drug allergies are fairly common, but allergies to specific components or formulations of certain drugs are rare. These reactions can be difficult to diagnose as they might involve multiple components within the drug, making the exact allergen hard to pinpoint. Genetic factors can play a role in individual susceptibility to drug allergies.

1. Complexity of drug formulations: It may be challenging to isolate which component is responsible for the allergic reaction.
2. Individual genetic variations: Genetic predisposition influences the likelihood of developing a drug allergy.
3. Underreporting: Some rare drug allergies may go undiagnosed or underreported due to the complexity of diagnosis.

Allergies to Specific Food Components

While allergies to common food allergens like peanuts, milk, or eggs are well-known, allergies to specific, less common components within foods are exceedingly rare. These might involve reactions to unique proteins found in a certain type of fruit, vegetable, or even a less-frequently consumed spice. These allergies require sophisticated testing to diagnose and frequently are only identified in a very limited number of individuals.

1. Limited exposure: Low consumption of the food containing the rare allergen leads to limited opportunities for developing the allergy.
2. Advanced testing needed: Diagnosing these allergies requires specialized tests that might not be widely available.
3. Difficulty in identification: Pinpointing the specific allergenic component can be a significant challenge.

What are the top 7 allergies?

Defining the "top" 7 allergies is challenging as prevalence varies by region and age group. However, based on widespread data and common reporting, the following are consistently ranked among the most prevalent food and environmental allergies globally:

1. Milk
2. Eggs
3. Peanuts
4. Tree Nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, cashews)
5. Soy
6. Wheat
7. Shellfish (e.g., shrimp, crab, lobster)

1. Milk Allergy: Symptoms and Management

Milk allergy, often appearing in infancy, is a reaction to proteins in cow's milk. Symptoms range from mild (rash, hives) to severe (anaphylaxis). Careful avoidance of all milk products (including hidden sources like whey and casein in processed foods) is crucial. Management often involves specialized formulas or alternatives like soy milk (if no soy allergy), almond milk, or oat milk.

1. Symptoms: Hives, eczema, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing, difficulty breathing
2. Treatment: Avoidance of milk products, epinephrine injection (in case of severe reactions), antihistamines.
3. Management: Careful label reading, seeking advice from allergists and dietitians for appropriate substitutions

2. Egg Allergy: Development and Triggers

Egg allergies are also common in young children, often resolving by school age. Reactions stem from proteins within egg whites and yolks. Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Many baked goods and processed foods contain eggs, necessitating careful reading of ingredient labels. Cooking eggs doesn't always eliminate the allergenic proteins.

1. Triggers: Egg whites and yolks
2. Symptoms: Skin rash, digestive upset, breathing difficulties
3. Management: Strict avoidance of eggs and products containing eggs. Substitution with egg-free alternatives in baking.

3. Peanut Allergy: Severity and Prevention

Peanut allergy is particularly concerning due to its potential severity and persistence throughout life. Even minute amounts of peanut protein can trigger a reaction, ranging from mild itching to fatal anaphylaxis. Prevention strategies are often focused on early introduction of peanuts in high-risk infants (under guidance from a medical professional) to potentially reduce the risk of developing the allergy.

1. Severity: Can range from mild to life-threatening
2. Prevention: Early introduction of peanuts under medical supervision (for high-risk infants)
3. Treatment: Avoidance, epinephrine auto-injectors (like EpiPen), antihistamines

4. Tree Nut Allergies: Cross-Reactivity and Identification

Tree nut allergies (walnuts, almonds, cashews, etc.) are frequently severe and can be life-threatening. Cross-reactivity occurs, meaning an allergy to one tree nut often indicates an allergy to others. Careful identification of all tree nuts in food products is essential. Even traces can cause significant reactions.

1. Cross-reactivity: Allergy to one tree nut often implies allergy to others
2. Symptoms: Similar to other allergies - ranging from mild to severe
3. Management: Strict avoidance, careful reading of labels, carrying emergency medication.

5. Soy Allergy: Prevalence and Management

Soy allergy is less prevalent than some others, but it can still be significant, particularly in young children. Soy is found in many processed foods, making avoidance challenging. It’s important to note that soy products can be very versatile in use and used to replace other allergenic foods in some cases. It often presents with skin rashes, gastrointestinal problems, or breathing difficulties.

1. Prevalence: Less common than other food allergies
2. Symptoms: Skin rash, digestive issues, respiratory problems
3. Management: Avoidance of soy and soy-containing products, careful label reading.

What are some of the most dangerous allergies?

Several allergies pose significant dangers due to their potential for severe, life-threatening reactions. Anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially fatal allergic reaction, is a major concern. Allergies to foods like peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish are particularly risky because these foods are common and exposure can be difficult to completely avoid. Insect stings, especially from bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets, can also trigger anaphylaxis, even in individuals with no prior history of severe reactions. Medications, including penicillin and other antibiotics, represent another serious category. The severity of an allergic reaction isn't always predictable; even a seemingly mild reaction in the past doesn't guarantee a similar response in the future. Latex allergies can also be problematic, especially for healthcare workers or individuals who frequently use latex gloves or products. Furthermore, the severity of an allergic reaction can vary depending on several factors, including the amount of allergen exposure, the individual's sensitivity, and the presence of pre-existing health conditions. It's crucial for individuals with known allergies to carry emergency epinephrine auto-injectors (like EpiPens) and to have a plan in place for managing allergic reactions.

How common are life-threatening allergies?

While many people experience mild allergic reactions, the prevalence of life-threatening allergies, those capable of causing anaphylaxis, is a significant public health concern. Exact figures vary depending on the allergen and the population studied, but research suggests a notable percentage of the population experiences at least one food allergy, with some experiencing multiple allergies simultaneously. Food allergies, particularly peanut and tree nut allergies, are significantly impacting children and are increasingly prevalent in developed countries. The numbers for insect sting allergies are also concerning, with the potential for fatal reactions in individuals with severe sensitivities. Data on the overall prevalence of anaphylaxis is challenging to obtain precisely due to underreporting and variations in diagnostic criteria, but evidence supports the notion that it is a clinically important issue requiring increased awareness and medical attention. It's important to note that the risk of a severe allergic reaction isn't just dependent on the prevalence of the allergy itself but also on the circumstances of exposure and the individual’s level of sensitization. Better diagnosis and management strategies, including increased access to emergency treatments like epinephrine, are crucial in mitigating the impact of these potentially life-threatening conditions.

Are some allergies more difficult to manage than others?

Yes, managing allergies can be incredibly challenging, and the level of difficulty varies significantly depending on several factors. Allergies to common foods like peanuts, milk, or eggs are particularly hard to manage because these ingredients are widespread in processed foods and restaurant meals. Accidental exposure can happen easily, even with careful avoidance strategies. Insect sting allergies are also challenging due to the unpredictable nature of encounters with stinging insects. Moreover, severe allergies that trigger anaphylaxis require constant vigilance and access to emergency medication. The difficulties are compounded by the fact that the severity of allergic reactions can fluctuate, making it difficult to predict the outcome of each exposure. Managing an allergy successfully involves a multifaceted approach, including strict avoidance strategies, regular communication with healthcare professionals, carrying emergency medication, and educating family, friends, and school staff about the allergy. Cross-contamination is also a major concern, highlighting the difficulty of completely eliminating all traces of allergens from the environment. The psychological burden of managing a severe allergy should not be underestimated; the constant worry of accidental exposure and the potential for life-threatening reactions significantly impact the quality of life for individuals and their families.

What should I do if I suspect I have a severe allergy?

If you suspect you have a severe allergy, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Don't attempt to self-diagnose or treat the allergy. A healthcare professional, such as an allergist or immunologist, can conduct appropriate tests to identify the specific allergen or allergens causing your symptoms. These tests often involve skin prick tests, blood tests, or oral food challenges, depending on the suspected allergen and the severity of your symptoms. Based on the test results, your doctor can create a personalized management plan. This plan may include avoidance strategies, emergency medication such as an epinephrine auto-injector, and potentially allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) in some cases. Documenting your symptoms, including the timing of symptoms, the suspected allergen, and the severity of the reaction, can be invaluable in helping your doctor make a diagnosis. If you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, dizziness, or a rapid drop in blood pressure, seek immediate emergency medical care. Delaying treatment for anaphylaxis can be life-threatening.