Emergency Care for Severe Allergic Reaction & Anaphylaxis in Las Vegas, NV

A severe, multisystem allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. It is a life-threatening condition. Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a substance and attacks it. Typically, allergic reactions only occur in one part of the body. For example, seasonal allergies tend to affect your nose and eyes. Anaphylaxis is different. It causes a reaction that involves your whole body. 

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency because it can be fatal without treatment. Call 911 immediately. 

On your way to Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican for anaphylactic shock or a severe allergic reaction in the Greater Las Vegas and Henderson, NV area? Use our online waiting service, InQuicker, to select your estimated arrival time. 

 

Anaphylactic Shock Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include: 

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Chest tightness
  • Dizziness
  • Hives
  • Rapid pulse
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of consciousness can also occur. Some people describe feeling strange or having a feeling that something bad is about to happen. 

Dial 911 for immediate medical care for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. 

 

Causes of Severe Allergic Reaction

A severe allergic reaction is the result of your body reacting to a substance called an allergen. An allergen is anything that triggers your immune system to react. Some people are born with gene variations that make them more likely to be hypersensitive to certain allergens. 

The most common allergens that trigger a severe allergic reaction include:

  • Foods such as cow’s milk, eggs, fish, peanuts, soy, and wheat
  • Insect stings, including bees, hornets, wasps, and fire ants
  • Latex
  • Medications such as penicillin and other antibiotics

 

Anaphylaxis Treatment at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican

Treatment and prevention plans are the same no matter what type of allergen causes the reaction. Avoiding any exposure to the allergen will prevent anaphylaxis, but this is not always possible. Doctors prescribe epinephrine autoinjectors for people to use if an exposure occurs. It will help control symptoms until you can get medical attention. 

You should always carry the autoinjector with you and know how to use it. Family members and caretakers should also be familiar with using your autoinjector. Children should have an anaphylaxis action plan on file with schools, camps, and other places that are responsible for their care. You still need to find emergency medical care after you use the autoinjector.

Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican treats anaphylactic shock and severe allergic reaction in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV as part of our emergency services.