Final answer:
Allergic reactions to peanuts can sometimes trigger a severe and systemic reaction called anaphylaxis, which is potentially life-threatening and must be promptly treated with epinephrine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Allergic reactions to peanuts can be very serious, causing a systemic allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is a serious, rapid-onset reaction that triggers symptoms like dangerous drops in blood pressure, severe throat swelling potentially leading to airway blockage, and acute respiratory distress. Without prompt treatment with epinephrine, which counteracts these symptoms, anaphylaxis can lead to fatal outcomes.
Anaphylaxis is a type of type I hypersensitivity reaction where the immune system overreacts to an allergen. It is important to note that not all allergic reactions escalate to anaphylaxis, but for those with known severe reactions, carrying an epinephrine autoinjector, such as an EpiPen®, is a critical precaution.