Final answer:
The most common anaphylaxis triggers are insect stings and food allergies. Lack of sleep and emotional stress are not direct triggers. Epinephrine is the primary treatment for anaphylactic reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common anaphylaxis triggers include insect stings, specifically bee stings, and food allergies, with nuts and shellfish being notable examples. Neither lack of sleep nor emotional stress are known to directly trigger anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that can become life-threatening, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Anaphylaxis can be caused by various agents, but the primary ones are certain foods (like shellfish and peanuts), insect stings (from bees, wasps, or hornets), medications (such as penicillin), and less commonly, latex or exercise. When an individual with severe allergies encounters an allergen, their immune system overreacts, leading to systemic mast cell degranulation, which releases histamine and other substances. This release causes symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure, swelling of the tongue and throat, difficulty breathing, and possible shock.
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, as it works to raise blood pressure, relax bronchial smooth muscle, and reduce swelling. Individuals with known severe allergies often carry an epinephrine autoinjector for immediate self-administration in case of an anaphylactic reaction. Timely use of epinephrine can be lifesaving.