Allergic Reactions
Physicians and staff at Clear Choice Emergency Room treat a wide range of mild to severe reactions to a variety of allergic reactions—from insect bites and stings, to reactions to foods.
Recognizing the first signs of a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) and taking immediate action with emergency medication can be the difference between life and death. If you or a loved one, especially a child, has a severe allergic reaction, every second counts. That’s why it’s critical for people with severe allergies to know the symptoms of anaphylaxis and be prepared with an emergency action plan.
Signs and Symptoms:
The signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis can vary greatly from person to person. Also, they may develop very quickly — within seconds of exposure to an allergen — or evolve over an hour or so.
- Cough, difficulty or irregular breathing, wheezing, itchy throat or mouth, and difficulty swallowing
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea
- Itchiness, red bumps or welts on the skin (hives), and skin redness
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, chest discomfort or tightness, mental confusion, weakness, lower blood pressure, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness, and fainting
When to visit Clear Choice Emergency Room:
An allergic reaction becomes more serious and is considered a medical emergency when any of the signs or symptoms are particularly severe, such as loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, or if different parts or systems of the body are involved, such as having the combination of hives and vomiting.
Head to your nearest Clear Choice Emergency Room for high-quality medical care, without the long-wait times typical of most hospital emergency rooms. We’re open seven days a week, 365 days a year, and at any given time, you will be seen by a board certified, highly experienced emergency care physician.