Does anaphylaxis cause shortness of breath?

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. Swelling in the throat and tightening of the airways can cause breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, noisy breathing, or a persistent cough. Symptoms may follow exposure to a possible trigger such as food, medicine, or an insect sting, sometimes together with hives, swelling, vomiting, or dizziness.

Shortness of breath can also result from asthma, infection, heart problems, or other conditions. Sudden breathlessness after a possible allergen exposure must not be dismissed because it can rapidly become life-threatening.

Use a prescribed adrenaline auto-injector without delay if anaphylaxis is suspected, then call local emergency services. Do not drive yourself to hospital. An inhaler may help asthma symptoms but does not replace adrenaline for anaphylaxis.

Lie down with legs raised if this is comfortable. If you are struggling to breathe, sit with legs outstretched rather than standing or walking. If symptoms return or worsen before help arrives and another prescribed auto-injector is available, follow your emergency plan.

Call emergency services immediately for sudden shortness of breath with throat tightness, wheeze, tongue swelling, trouble swallowing, a hoarse voice, blue or grey lips, severe dizziness, collapse, or rapidly spreading hives. Suspected anaphylaxis requires hospital assessment even after symptoms ease.

Ask what the likely trigger was, whether allergy referral is needed, and when to use your adrenaline auto-injector. Have a clinician demonstrate the device and discuss a written plan for home, travel, school, or work.