Final answer:
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction triggered by allergens such as shellfish, peanuts, insect stings, medications, and latex. People at risk for anaphylactic shock should carry epinephrine autoinjectors to manage emergency situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Triggers of Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. This rapid, systemic reaction occurs due to a massive release of histamines after exposure to an allergen. Common triggers of anaphylaxis include:
- Food allergies, particularly to shellfish and peanuts
- Stings or bites from insects like bees
- Medications, such as penicillin
- Latex or other substances that cause contact allergic reactions
Individuals may also experience seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, or have allergic skin conditions like hives and eczema, which are typically less severe than anaphylaxis. Some individuals are at risk of developing anaphylactic shock if they come into contact with specific allergens. To manage emergency situations, people with known severe allergies often carry epinephrine autoinjectors (EpiPen®), as epinephrine can be lifesaving by increasing blood pressure and relaxing bronchial smooth muscle during an anaphylactic reaction.