Get Fast Emergency Care for Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening, whole-body allergic reaction, which happens when your immune system overreacts to a harmless substance. Anaphylaxis can be fatal without treatment.
If you or someone with you is having symptoms of anaphylaxis, call 9-1-1 immediately.
At Dignity Health, our emergency care team is here for anytime, day or night, at the following locations:
Causes of Anaphylaxis
An allergen is a substance that causes an allergic reaction. When your body has an extreme allergic reaction to an allergen, it is called anaphylaxis. Some people are genetically more sensitive to certain allergens.
Common allergens that bring about anaphylaxis include:
- Foods, such as peanuts, cow’s milk, eggs, fish, soy, and wheat
- Insect stings, including hornets, bees, wasps, and fire ants
- Latex
- Medications, such as antibiotics
Anaphylaxis Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Chest tightness
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Hives
- Loss of consciousness
- Rapid pulse
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat
- Vomiting
- Wheezing
Treatment & Prevention of Anaphylaxis at Dignity Health
Although it’s not always possible, avoiding exposure to allergens will prevent anaphylaxis. If an exposure occurs, a prescription epinephrine autoinjector can be used to help control symptoms until you can get medical help.
It is important to always carry your autoinjector with you and know how to use it. Caretakers and family members should also be familiar with how to use your autoinjector. Schools, camps, and other places that are responsible for your child’s care should have an anaphylaxis action plan on file. Once the autoinjector has been used, you still need to find medical attention.
Come to a Dignity Health emergency room for personalized, fast treatment for an emergency allergic reaction in the Bay Area.
Dignity Health provides emergency care for a wide range of conditions, including anaphylaxis, in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Redwood City.