Anaphylaxis Specialist

Two River Allergy and Asthma Group

Jun Yang, MD

Allergy & Immunology Practice & Allergist serving Tinton Falls, Middletown Township, Holmdel, and Coltsneck, NJ

Allergies cause a range of symptoms, such as watery eyes, itchy throat, or skin. In most people, allergic reactions are mild to moderate. However, some people experience a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Board-certified allergist and immunologist, Jun Yang, MD, at Two River Allergy and Asthma Group in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, is an experienced allergist and can develop a plan to help prevent anaphylaxis. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

Anaphylaxis

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction to your allergen and may cause death. The reaction can occur within a few seconds to as long as an hour after exposure to the allergen. However, once triggered, the onset of symptoms is rapid. 

You need emergency medical care during an anaphylaxis reaction and then follow-up care with Dr. Yang at Two River Allergy and Asthma Group.

What are anaphylaxis symptoms?

Anaphylaxis symptoms vary from person to person and may affect a number of organ systems, including your respiratory or cardiac system. Common anaphylaxis symptoms include:

  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Cough
  • Itchy mouth or throat
  • Nasal congestion
  • Low heart rate
  • Pale, blue skin coloring
  • Dizziness
  • Low blood pressure
  • Lightheadedness
  • Hives all over
  • Swelling
  • Itchiness
  • Redness
  • Itchy, watery, red eyes
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach ache
  • Anxiety
  • Feeling of “impending doom”

The most dangerous symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, and low blood pressure. If you or your loved one is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately. 

What are the most common causes of anaphylaxis?

The allergen triggering anaphylaxis may differ from person to person. However, some allergens are more likely to lead to a severe allergic reaction, including:

  • Peanuts
  • Tree nuts
  • Shellfish
  • Fish
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Antibiotics
  • Seizure medications
  • Yellowjackets
  • Honeybees
  • Paper wasps
  • Hornets
  • Fire ants
  • Latex

Though these are the most common causes of anaphylaxis, any food, medication, or insect may result in a severe allergic reaction. 

How is anaphylaxis treated?

Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. The sooner you get help for your severe allergic reaction, the less severe it will become. 

In Dr. Yang’s office, you will get a detailed evaluation regarding the possible cause of the anaphylaxis you experienced, including airborne inhalants, food, drug, insect venom, and more.

If you have a severe allergy, Dr. Yang at Two River Allergy and Asthma Group may prescribe an epinephrine autoinjector, which has adrenaline that relieves breathing problems and improves heart rate and blood pressure. You should carry this medication with you at all times.

Dr. Yang may also prescribe antihistamines to manage hives and itching and oral steroids to reduce allergic inflammation. 

If you have a severe allergy, you need to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies the allergen in case of an anaphylactic reaction. You should also alert family, friends, co-workers, employers, and school staff, and educate them about your allergy and the signs of anaphylaxis so they can assist you if needed. 

To learn more about anaphylaxis and the steps you can take to prevent a severe allergic reaction, contact Two River Allergy and Asthma Group by phone or online today.