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Discharge Instructions for Anaphylactic Shock
You have had a serious allergic reaction. It's known as anaphylactic shock or anaphylaxis. It often happens within minutes of exposure to an allergen. But it can be delayed for hours. Common causes include:
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Foods, such as milk, eggs, or peanuts.
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Medicines such as penicillin.
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IV contrast dyes. These are used for some X-rays and scans.
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Bee sting.
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Latex products.
Symptoms can include:
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Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
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Throat itching, tightness, or trouble swallowing.
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Vomiting or diarrhea.
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Red, itchy rash (hives), or swelling.
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Dizziness, confusion, or passing out because of a sudden drop in blood pressure.
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Shock. This can happen when less oxygen reaches your brain and other organs.
This kind of shock can cause death if not treated quickly.
Home care
In rare cases, this type of shock can come back within 24 to 48 hours. There is no way to know if this will happen. Call 911 right away if your symptoms return.
Here are some tips for home care:
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Ask your health care provider if you should carry epinephrine. This medicine will help to stop an allergic reaction until you can get medical help.
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Ask your provider for an action plan. This is often a one-page plan that lists signs and symptoms of severe reaction. It tells you what to do. It can be shared with family members, friends, and others you see often.
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Talk to your provider about medicines you take (including over-the-counter ones) before using them. Some may affect allergy reaction symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may suggest a different medicine.
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Learn how to use your epinephrine. There are different types available. Each will come with instructions. But have your provider or pharmacist show you how to use it.
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Always carry 2 doses of epinephrine. You sometimes need a second dose in 5 to 15 minutes if your symptoms are not getting better or start coming back.
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Check the expiration date of your epinephrine often. Don't leave it in the car. It can get too hot or freeze.
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Stay away from the things that cause your allergic reaction, if you can.
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If you have a food allergy, always ask about what's in food made by others. At a restaurant, tell your server about your food allergies. Read all food labels.
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Wear a medical ID bracelet that lists your allergy. Ask your provider how to get one.
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Tell your family, friends, and coworkers what to do if you have a severe allergic reaction. Include:
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How to use epinephrine. Tell them to give you the medicine if you can't.
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How to position you during a reaction. You should be lying down with your legs raised.
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When to call 911. They should call right away.
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When to start CPR. They should start CPR if you stop breathing.
Follow-up care
Make a follow-up appointment with your provider.
Call 911
Call 911 right away if you have:
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Fainting or loss of consciousness.
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Fast pulse.
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Trouble breathing or wheezing.
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Nausea or vomiting.
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Swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat.
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Itchy, blotchy skin or hives.
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Pale, cool, damp skin.
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Drowsiness.
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Confusion.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer:
Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
4/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.