Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.

Individuals who experience anaphylaxis usually develop allergy antibodies (IgE) targeted against allergen. When these IgE antibodies bind allergen, a systemic allergic reaction can occur (typically within minutes to a few hours) resulting in symptoms of:

Hives, Itching, Flushing
Swelling of Lips, Tongue, and/or Throat
Nasal Congestion and/or Runny Nose
Cough, Wheeze, Shortness of Breath, Chest Tightness
Abdominal Cramps, Vomiting, Diarrhea
Lightheadedness and/or Passing Out (Low Blood Pressure)
Anxiety

Potential causes of anaphylaxis include:

Allergists are considered the experts in anaphylaxis and diagnose this condition by history and tests.

The goals in the evaluation and treatment of anaphylaxis are to identify allergenic triggers of anaphylaxis, avoid such triggers, and in the case of accidental exposure, appropriately manage an adverse allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis.

By visiting an allergist, you too can reduce your risk of experiencing recurrent anaphylaxis.

Conditions Treated

Allergy Shots

Allergy immunotherapy, also called “allergy shots,” is prescribed to modify the immune system’s response to allergens with the goal of minimizing and/or preventing an allergen initiated inflammatory response.
Allergy Drops & Tablets

Allergy drops, and tablets are two forms of sublingual immunotherapy that are injection-free alternatives to allergy shots. Both contain environmental allergen such as pollen, dust mites, molds, cat, or dog.
Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung condition that usually starts in childhood but can occur at any age. Allergists are considered the experts in asthma and diagnose this condition by history, exam and breathing tests of the airways.
Allergy & Sinus

Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common chronic conditions in the US. Individuals with allergic rhinitis develop allergy antibodies (IgE) targeted against allergens including pollen, animal proteins, dust mites, mold, and insect droppings.
Food Allergy

Food allergy affects 5% of children and 4% of adults in the United States and is defined as an adverse health event that is immune mediated and occurs reproducibly. Individuals with IgE mediated food allergy develop allergy antibodies (IgE) targeted against food allergens.
Allergic Rashes

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder that usually starts at age < 5 years. It is characterized by itchy skin that becomes inflamed with scratching. For this reason, atopic dermatitis is known as the “itch that rashes.”
Other Conditions