Allergic reactions are your body’s exaggerated response to an allergen–a normally harmless substance that affects the nose, throat, eyes, and skin–causing symptoms that range from mild to life-threatening. 

If you have allergies, it’s important to know when to seek emergency care. Surepoint Emergency Center provides fast, comprehensive treatment for all allergic reactions–mild or severe–any time of the day or night.

What Causes Allergic Reactions, and What Are the Symptoms?

Allergic reactions occur when your immune system overreacts to certain substances known as allergens. These reactions can occur within seconds or minutes after exposure to the allergen, but in some cases, they may take hours or even a full day to appear. Some common allergens include:

  • Animal dander/fur
  • Bee or insect stings
  • Certain foods (milk, eggs, peanuts, seafood, etc.)
  • Medicines
  • Pollens
  • Latex

Symptoms vary based on the individual, the allergen, and how many times they’ve been exposed. Usually, a person’s first reaction is often mild, but repeated exposure can lead to more severe symptoms over time. Mild allergic reactions include:

  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Nasal congestion/Runny nose
  • Skin rashes or localized swelling or redness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Water, red eyes

Allergic reactions can affect anyone, but individuals with asthma, seasonal allergies, and a family history of allergies are considered high-risk for moderate to severe reactions. 

When to Go to the ER (and Why Surepoint Is the Right Choice)

Most mild allergic reactions can be treated at home, but severe reactions require immediate emergency care. Knowing the signs of a severe allergic reaction could be the difference between life or death for some. Call 911 or head to the ER if any of the following occur:

  • Trouble or difficulty breathing
  • Itching in the mouth or throat
  • Chest pain
  • Swelling of the throat or tongue
  • Diarrhea accompanied by other symptoms
  • Intense anxiety or confusion
  • Rapid or weak pulse
  • Anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening reaction)

Immediate ER care is critical for any of these mentioned symptoms, especially anaphylaxis. These reactions require emergency interventions such as epinephrine, IV fluids, or oxygen. Surepoint is a fully equipped stand-alone ER built to handle these emergencies with: 

  • 24/7 emergency care
  • Shorter average wait time (compared to most hospital ERs)
  • ER-trained doctors and staff
  • Full diagnostic and medication support for fast and effective treatment

Prevention Tips

Having an allergy management plan is key to preventing and controlling allergic reactions. Some people may not realize they have allergies, so awareness is essential. Some helpful prevention steps include the following:

  • Avoiding known allergens
  • Carry an EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector) if prescribed
  • Educate family, friends, and coworkers on how to help you in an emergency
  • Track what you eat and how your body responds to certain foods
  • Wear a medical bracelet for severe allergies

When in Doubt, Choose Surepoint!

While allergic reactions are common, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Mild symptoms can escalate quickly, and some reactions can become life-threatening within moments. At the first sign of a severe allergic reaction, don’t wait–visit your nearest Surepoint Emergency Center today!!!

Surepoint Emergency Center is a modern emergency medical facility open 24/7. As an alternative to the traditional hospital ER experience, we offer convenience and minimal wait time, along with highly-trained emergency medical staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

Our top priority is bringing high-quality emergency care, quickly and easily to your family. We are committed to making patients feel better faster in a comforting and compassionate environment.

Expert convenient care in your neighborhood.

      References

      Allergen defined | AAAAI. (n.d.). https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/allergy,-asthma-immunology-glossary/allergen-defined

      Allergy Prevention | AAFA.org. (2022, November 14). Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. https://aafa.org/allergies/prevent-allergies/

      Anaphylaxis – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic. (2021, October 2). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anaphylaxis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351468

      Pendersen, D., MD, MS. (2024, March 31). Allergic Reactions. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000005.htm#:~:text=Many%20allergic%20reactions%20are%20mild,to%20death%20within%2015%20minutes.