Wilderness: Allergic Reactions

• Allergic Reactions Overview
• Allergic Reaction Symptoms
• Allergic Reactions Treatment
• When to Seek Medical Care
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Allergic Reactions Overview

When a person sensitive to certain foreign substances is exposed to those substances, a reaction marked by itching, flushing (reddening of the skin), a raised rash, respiratory distress, and blood pressure collapse may occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may occur immediately or may be delayed by several hours.

Allergic reactions may occur after insect, bee, and wasp stings; after taking certain drugs (such as aspirin or ibuprofen); or after eating certain foods (such as nuts, shellfish, or citrus). Contact with certain plants, marine wildlife, and latex can also trigger allergic reactions.

After the initial reaction is treated, symptoms may return after a delay of about 8-12 hours. These recurrences are usually less severe than the initial reaction, and symptoms may go away by themselves.