What is the Difference Between Anaphylaxis and Anaphylactic Shock?

Anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock are both severe allergic reactions, but they differ in their symptoms and consequences.

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening, generalized or systemic rapid-onset hypersensitivity reaction, which can be either allergic or nonallergic. It typically involves symptoms involving two or more body systems at the same time, and they gradually become more severe. Some common symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the mouth.

Anaphylactic shock is a severe, rapidly progressing anaphylactic reaction that results in a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. It is an allergic emergency that refers to the narrowing of the airways and a drop in blood pressure in response to exposure to an allergen. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock include a sudden drop in blood pressure, a weak or rapid pulse, clammy skin, and loss of consciousness.

In summary, the main difference between anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock is that anaphylactic shock involves a severe drop in blood pressure, which can be life-threatening. While both conditions are severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis can present with a wider range of symptoms and may not always lead to shock.

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What is the Difference Between Anaphylaxis and Anaphylactic Shock?

Comparative Table: Anaphylaxis vs Anaphylactic Shock

Here is a table comparing anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock:

Feature	Anaphylaxis	Anaphylactic Shock
Definition	A severe, life-threatening, generalized or systemic rapid-onset hypersensitivity reaction (allergic or nonallergic).	A state of systemic hypoperfusion followed by impaired tissue perfusion, which occurs when anaphylaxis is left untreated.
Onset	Rapid, typically within minutes of exposure to the allergen.	Develops after anaphylaxis, can be within an hour of exposure to the allergen.
Immunological Mechanism	Involves an acute, Ig-E mediated immune response, with mast cells and basophils playing a significant role.	A progression of anaphylaxis, resulting from the untreated immune response.
Symptoms	Difficulty breathing, dizziness or lightheadedness, weak pulse, chest pain, swelling of airways.	A worsening of anaphylaxis symptoms, leading to life-threatening complications.
Treatment	Epinephrine injection, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and corticosteroids.	Unresponsiveness, profound hypotension, ECG changes, edema, fall in hematocrit or respiratory arrest, and cyanosis.

In summary, anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal if not treated promptly. Anaphylactic shock is a progression of anaphylaxis, where the immune response worsens and leads to systemic hypoperfusion and impaired tissue perfusion, which can be life-threatening.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.