HomeSymptoms & Severity

Symptoms & Severity

Recognizing the signs of an allergic reaction and understanding its severity can help you respond appropriately. Learn to distinguish between mild, moderate, and severe (anaphylactic) reactions.

Mild

Usually manageable at home

Localized symptoms that don't spread. Monitor closely and consider antihistamines if appropriate.

Moderate

May require medical attention

Symptoms spreading or affecting multiple areas. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen.

Severe (Anaphylaxis)

EMERGENCY - Act immediately

Life-threatening. Use epinephrine if prescribed and call emergency services (911) immediately.

Mild Symptoms

Usually localized and manageable

Symptoms Checklist

Itchy, runny nose(Nose)
Sneezing(Nose)
Itchy, watery eyes(Eyes)
Mild skin rash or hives (localized)(Skin)
Mild itching(Skin)
Slight swelling at contact site(Local)

What to Do

1. Remove or avoid the allergen if you know what caused the reaction.

2. Monitor symptoms closely for any signs of progression.

3. Consider over-the-counter antihistamines as directed for mild symptoms.

4. Apply cool compresses to itchy skin or localized hives.

When to Seek Help

If mild symptoms persist for more than a few hours, spread to other areas, or you're unsure about the reaction, consult a healthcare provider.

Moderate Symptoms

May indicate a more significant reaction

Symptoms Checklist

Widespread hives or rash(Skin)
Significant itching(Skin)
Mild swelling (face, lips)(Swelling)
Nasal congestion(Respiratory)
Nausea or stomach discomfort(GI)
Mild coughing or throat clearing(Respiratory)

What to Do

1. Stay calm and monitor symptoms closely for any worsening.

2. Remove the allergen and avoid further exposure.

3. Be prepared to use epinephrine if symptoms progress and it's prescribed.

4. Contact a healthcare provider or consider seeking medical attention.

Watch for Progression

Moderate symptoms can quickly escalate to severe. If you notice breathing difficulty, throat tightness, or cardiovascular symptoms, treat as anaphylaxis.

Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis)

Life-threatening emergency requiring immediate action

Anaphylaxis Warning Signs

Any ONE of these symptoms in combination with exposure to a known allergen may indicate anaphylaxis.

Difficulty breathing, wheezingRespiratory

Swelling of throat, tongue, or airwayAirway

Rapid or weak pulseCardiovascular

Severe drop in blood pressureCardiovascular

Dizziness, lightheadedness, faintingCardiovascular

Pale or bluish skin colorSkin

Tightness in chestRespiratory

Difficulty swallowingThroat

Sense of doom or confusionNeurological

Loss of consciousnessNeurological

When to Use Epinephrine

Use epinephrine (if prescribed) immediately when you experience severe allergic symptoms, especially:

Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Throat tightness or swelling
Feeling faint or loss of consciousness
Multiple body systems affected

ALWAYS Call 911

Even after using epinephrine, call emergency services immediately. A second reaction (biphasic reaction) can occur hours later.

EpiPen Usage Guide

Body Systems

Symptoms by Body Area

Allergic reactions can affect multiple body systems. Here's how symptoms may present across different areas.

Body Area	Mild	Moderate	Severe
Skin	Localized itching, rash	Widespread hives, flushing	Pale, clammy, bluish skin
Respiratory	Sneezing, runny nose	Congestion, mild cough	Wheezing, difficulty breathing, throat closing
Cardiovascular	Normal	Slightly elevated heart rate	Rapid/weak pulse, drop in blood pressure, dizziness
Gastrointestinal	Mild nausea	Stomach cramps, nausea	Vomiting, severe diarrhea

Educational Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about allergies and follow their prescribed treatment plan.

Ready to Learn More?

Understand how to respond to allergic reactions with our emergency action plan and epinephrine guide.

Emergency Action Plan EpiPen Guide