SYMPTOMS
The allergic response can vary in severity, ranging from a mild urticaria to full-blown anaphylaxis. In many cases, the severity of the reaction may be affected by the dose, or degree of exposure, to the allergen. Response can also be unpredictable. A mild reaction may be followed by a more severe one at a later date.2 In some patients there may be a secondary, or biphasic, reaction, which can occur anywhere between 1 and 72 hours after the initial allergic response.
Symptoms of severe allergy may include some or all of the following:
* Pruritus
* Urticaria
* Angio-oedema, especially of the face or larynx, leading to dyspnoea, dysphonia and dysphagia
* Abdominal cramps and nausea
* Severe asthma
* Collapse and unconsciousness2