Anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis) is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction. The most common anaphylactic reactions are to foods, insect stings, medications and latex. Symptoms of anaphylaxis usually start within 5 to 30 minutes of coming into contact with the allergen but may take more than an hour for you to notice anaphylactic symptoms.
Your risk is higher if you have allergies or asthma and have a family history of anaphylaxis. Also, if you’ve experienced anaphylaxis your risk of having another anaphylactic reaction is increased.