Which term describes a severe allergic reaction?

Which term describes a severe allergic reaction?

• A. Sepsis
• B. Myringitis
• C. Edema
• D. Anaphylaxis

Answer: (D)

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, life-threatening allergic reaction that involves multiple body systems and progresses quickly, making it the term for a severe allergic reaction. It stands apart from other conditions: sepsis is a systemic response to infection, often with fever and signs of infection; edema simply means swelling from various causes and isn’t by itself an emergency tied to an allergic trigger; myringitis is an ear infection. In anaphylaxis you can have widespread hives or swelling, breathing difficulties, throat tightness, dizziness or fainting, and low blood pressure. Because it can cause airway and circulation collapse, it requires urgent care—call emergency services and use an epinephrine auto-injector if one has been prescribed, then seek further medical evaluation.

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, life-threatening allergic reaction that involves multiple body systems and progresses quickly, making it the term for a severe allergic reaction. It stands apart from other conditions: sepsis is a systemic response to infection, often with fever and signs of infection; edema simply means swelling from various causes and isn’t by itself an emergency tied to an allergic trigger; myringitis is an ear infection. In anaphylaxis you can have widespread hives or swelling, breathing difficulties, throat tightness, dizziness or fainting, and low blood pressure. Because it can cause airway and circulation collapse, it requires urgent care—call emergency services and use an epinephrine auto-injector if one has been prescribed, then seek further medical evaluation.