Anaphylaxis happens when the immune system overreacts to a trigger such as certain foods, medications, or insect stings. Chemicals like histamine are released, which can cause itchy skin, swelling, wheezing, and tightening of the airways.
A rash alone may sometimes be a mild allergic reaction, but breathing trouble, throat or facial swelling, wheezing, dizziness, or lightheadedness makes the situation much more serious.
If these symptoms occur together, seek emergency medical help immediately rather than waiting to see whether they improve. Fast professional treatment is important because severe allergic reactions can progress rapidly.
