Emergency Physician Questions Emergency Physician

Is an allergic reaction considered an emergency?

I have a food allergic reaction. Is an allergic reaction considered an emergency?

1 Answer

EmergencyPhysicianEmergencyPhysician
It depends on what symptoms you have. If you have known allergies and are experiencing hives alone you can take antihistamine (Zyrtec; cetirizine) and see if that helps to resolve symptoms. If you are experiencing any airway symptoms (lip, tongue or throat swelling or tightness, wheezing or chest tightness) if you are dizzy or lightheaded, you should self-administer your Epi pen and seek emergency care.