Complications
Occurs following cardiovascular shock or cardiac arrest if giving intramuscular epinephrine is delayed. Previous episodes of anaphylaxis with the same food put the patient at increased risk of a fatal reaction.[38]
Although myocardial infarction during anaphylaxis is uncommon, it will become more frequent as the general population ages and allergic reactions of senescence become more prevalent. Cardiac ischemia may be triggered by hypotension associated with anaphylaxis or the hypertension and tachycardia that often follows the administration of epinephrine. If the diagnosis is made early and the appropriate management is initiated promptly, the outcome of cardiac arrest in this population may be better. However, serious sequelae of inadequate brain perfusion may occur and prognosis depends mainly on comorbidities and patient age.
Patients eliminating many foods may have nutritional deficits leading to growth failure. Involvement of a dietitian in this process is often very helpful because elimination diets may lead to malnutrition.
Patients with previous allergic and anaphylactic reactions are at higher risk for recurrence. However, the severity of a previous reaction does not necessarily predict the severity of a subsequent one.
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