How common is shortness of breath in anaphylaxis?

During anaphylaxis, swelling in the throat or tongue and tightening of the breathing tubes can make breathing feel difficult, noisy or tight. A person may also cough, wheeze, have a hoarse voice, or struggle to speak in full sentences. Symptoms can start quickly after contact with a trigger such as a food, medicine, insect sting or latex. Shortness of breath has many possible causes, so its presence alone does not identify the cause.

Use an adrenaline auto-injector immediately if one has been prescribed for suspected anaphylaxis, then call emergency services. Keep the person lying down with legs raised if possible; if breathing is difficult, they may sit with legs outstretched. Do not make them stand or walk. A second injector may be needed if symptoms continue or return while help is on the way.

Treat sudden breathing difficulty after a possible allergen as an emergency, especially with throat tightness, wheeze, facial swelling, widespread hives, dizziness, fainting, vomiting or a weak feeling. Call emergency services even if an auto-injector has improved symptoms, because the reaction can return and observation may be needed.

Ask which triggers you should avoid, how to recognise early airway symptoms, and whether you should carry more than one adrenaline auto-injector. A clinician can also show you and people close to you how to use the device and make an allergy action plan.