What are the risk factors for anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can follow exposure to an allergen that causes a widespread reaction. A previous anaphylactic reaction is a major warning that future exposure may be dangerous. Common triggers include foods such as nuts, eggs, milk, or seafood; medicines; and insect venom. Food Allergy can make accidental exposure a particular concern. Asthma may make breathing problems more serious during an allergic reaction. The trigger is not always identified, and a mild past reaction does not reliably predict the next one.

If you have a diagnosed severe allergy, ask your clinician for a written emergency plan and learn how to use prescribed adrenaline. Check labels, tell relevant family members or carers, and discuss precautions before medicines, procedures, travel, or meals prepared by others. Keep emergency medication accessible and check its condition as directed. Avoiding a known trigger lowers exposure but cannot remove every uncertainty.

Use prescribed adrenaline immediately for suspected anaphylaxis and call emergency services. Warning signs include swelling of the lips or tongue, throat tightness, wheezing, difficulty breathing, faintness, sudden confusion, or widespread symptoms affecting more than one body system. Do not wait for a rash, because anaphylaxis can occur without skin changes. Emergency observation is needed even if symptoms improve.

Ask which trigger is suspected, whether allergy testing is appropriate, and how to recognise your earliest warning signs. Confirm how and when to use adrenaline, whether asthma needs better control, and how to explain your emergency plan to relatives, school, or work colleagues.