Anaphylaxis Evaluation & Management in the Bay Area

What Is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis occurs when a massive release of immune mediators—including histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes—triggers a systemic reaction affecting multiple organ systems simultaneously. Common triggers include foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, and eggs; medications including antibiotics and NSAIDs; insect venom from bee and wasp stings; latex; and exercise. In some cases, no trigger can be identified, a condition known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.

Common Signs & Symptoms

• Hives, flushing, or intense itching of the skin
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or stridor
• A drop in blood pressure causing dizziness or loss of consciousness
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps
• A feeling of impending doom or extreme anxiety

How We Diagnose

Following an anaphylactic episode, our allergists conduct a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed history of the reaction, allergy skin testing and specific IgE blood testing for suspected triggers, and serum tryptase measurement to evaluate for underlying conditions such as mast cell disorders or mastocytosis that may increase the risk of severe allergic reactions.

Treatment Options at South Bay Allergy

Our management strategy includes prescribing injectable epinephrine auto-injectors for all at-risk patients, creating a written Anaphylaxis Emergency Action Plan, providing education for patients, families, schools, and employers, offering venom immunotherapy for bee and wasp sting allergies, and coordinating drug desensitization protocols when medically necessary medications must be continued despite a history of allergic reactions.

Schedule an Appointment

Do not face anaphylaxis risk without a clear plan. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and ensure you have the tools, knowledge, and protection needed to respond confidently in an emergency.