What is it?

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction. It can be life-threatening.

What can cause anaphylaxis?

Food is the most common cause of anaphylaxis, but insect stings, medicine, latex, or exercise can also cause an allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is most often diagnosed in childhood, but it can also develop later in life.

Living with Anaphylaxis

	I've been experiencing hives after I eat one particular food. What should I do? See your doctor who can refer you to an allergist. An allergist can determine if you are at risk and diagnose what triggers could cause a reaction.
	Should I take any precautions? Most importantly, do not eat the foods you are allergic to and learn how to avoid your triggers/allergens. Check out our Manage section for strategies for staying safe. Practice proper hygiene (e.g. wash your hands before meals and don't eat off of unclean surfaces).
	How will I know if I'm having an anaphylactic reaction? Know how to recognize the Symptoms of an allergic reaction. Do not ignore them, since reactions can get worse quickly.
	What should I do if I have an allergic reaction? It is important to keep an Epinephrine Auto-Injector with you at all times. It’s a device that can relieve symptoms by delivering a dose of epinephrine into your body. Nobody plans to have an allergic reaction, so be prepared - accidents can happen.
	What if I need help from others during a reaction? Training friends, family and others on how to recognize allergy symptoms and how to use an auto-injector can go a long way. Additionally, wearing MedicAlert^® identification can help communicate that you need emergency treatment, since it may be difficult to talk during a severe anaphylactic reaction.
	Can I live normally with this? Of course! Through risk reduction strategies, anaphylaxis can be managed. Don’t eat unless you know exactly what is in your food and have epinephrine with you at all times. Learn how to manage your allergies while living normally in our Live section.

Anaphylaxis in Canada

1.2 million Canadians have a food allergy.
Within the first three years of life, 6% - 8% of children are affected by food allergy.
Up to 80% of children outgrow their milk and egg allergy by age 10.
Up to 20% of children outgrow their peanut allergy by age 5.

The Most Common Allergies in Canada

Peanuts
Eggs
Milk
Tree Nuts
Wheat
Soy
Sesame Seeds
Seafood (Fish, Crustaceans, and Shellfish)
Sulphites

For more information on all of these allergens – please see Health Canada’s website.

More than just food!

Anaphylaxis can also triggered by insect stings, latex, drugs, and exercise. Read more about these allergies.

Newly diagnosed? Get more information on anaphylaxis from Anaphylaxis Canada.