Community Pediatric Asthma Service
Asthma and Anaphylaxis
If you have asthma and anaphylaxis, uncontrolled
asthma puts you at greater risk of death from
an anaphylactic reaction.
Possible Triggers which may cause Anaphylaxis
Food
The most common food allergies that trigger anaphylaxis are peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, fish, shellfish, soy, sesame, wheat, and mustard.
Insect Stings and Bites
Bees, wasps, hornets and fire ants are the most common problem insects. Treatment options are available. Ask for a referral to an allergist.
Medicine
Common anti-swelling drugs like Motrin, Advil and Aspirin (known as “Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs” or ‘NSAID’s) are the most common cause of medicine induced anaphylaxis.
Exercise
In rare circumstances, exercise may also lead to anaphylaxis in what is known as Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as Pollen Food Syndrome). Ingesting some foods followed by vigorous exercise can cause anaphylaxis, but ingestion of these foods with no vigorous exercise has no reaction. Keep a careful history of what was eaten just prior to exercise – especially foods such as celery, nuts, peaches, wheat or seafood.
Latex
Latex is a growing concern because of its widespread use in everyday work and at home. Latex can be found in items such as gloves, balloons, rubber bands, bandages, mouse pads, bath mats, garden hoses, rubber balls and toys, sports equipment, and baby pacifiers.
Unknown Causes
Sometimes you may not know or learn the cause of anaphylaxis. Talk to an allergist who will take an in-depth history to try and uncover what triggered a severe reaction.
Resources
- Learn how to use your injector: Allerject EpiPen Emerade
- Anaphylaxis: A Guide for Parents/Students, (Allergy/Asthma Information Association)
- The Basics of Asthma, Allergies and Anaphylaxis and Understanding the Differences, (Ontario Physical and Health Education Association)
- Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan, (Food Allergy Canada)
- If I have asthma, what does it mean for my food allergy?, (Food Allergy Canada)
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Material on this website has been designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment.
If you have specific questions, please consult your doctor or appropriate health care professional.