The Leading Cause of Anaphylaxis Isn’t What You Would Expect

Have you ever wondered what the leading cause of anaphylaxis is?

The thought never even crossed my mind until I had my first anaphylactic episode, and I panicked. As a relatively healthy woman in my forties, I had never experienced anything like it. I scrambled to find answers. What had caused my anaphylaxis? And more importantly, would it happen again?

My research didn’t just lead me to an answer…it led me to a completely unexpected diagnosis.

First, What Is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a type of severe allergic reaction that causes your body to go into shock. Anaphylaxis is often life-threatening, and is treated by an epinephrine injection.

While the cause of anaphylaxis varies, the symptoms are the same. The most widely recognized symptom of anaphylaxis is the restriction of airways, which can sometimes lead to suffocation. However, anaphylaxis symptoms are numerous and there are many that I didn't realize were symptoms.

Other symptoms of anaphylaxis include

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)

• Skin reactions, including hives and itching and flushed or pale skin

• A weak and rapid pulse

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

• Dizziness or fainting

The Leading Cause of Anaphylaxis

When I started researching the cause of anaphylaxis, my search led me to something terrifying: Alpha-Gal Syndrome is the leading cause of anaphylaxis. 

Source: Alpha-Gal Information

I was amazed to find that 33% of all anaphylaxis reactions are caused by Alpha-Gal Syndrome! And this number only reflects the number of patients that have been diagnosed with Alpha-Gal Syndrome at the time of their anaphylactic incident. Who knows how many others with AGS have had anaphylactic reactions while undiagnosed.

For me, my anaphylactic episode is what led to my Alpha-Gal diagnosis. I knew I needed to get help and prevent further allergic reactions. You can click here to read my full story.

We Need to Spread Alpha-Gal Awareness

I was one of those patients that had no clue about Alpha-Gal Syndrome until I had my anaphylactic episode. If I hadn’t started researching the cause of anaphylaxis, I would not have gotten answers as to why I was having strange allergic reactions.

For you, did anaphylaxis preempt your Alpha-Gal diagnosis? Or do you know someone who is experiencing anaphylactic reactions?

It is shocking that the most common cause of anaphylaxis is not common knowledge. Most people have never even heard of Alpha-Gal Syndrome, so they have no idea where to start looking when they have an anaphylactic reaction. We all need to work together to get the word out. People should be familiar with the leading cause of anaphylaxis.