What is a common symptom of anaphylaxis?

Severe respiratory distress is a hallmark symptom of anaphylaxis, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. During anaphylaxis, the body's immune system responds to an allergen by releasing large amounts of histamine and other chemicals, leading to inflammation and swelling in various bodily tissues. This can result in narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe, and manifesting as severe respiratory distress.

Common signs accompanying this severe distress may include wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling of tightness in the throat or chest. Recognizing these symptoms promptly is critical, as anaphylaxis can progress rapidly and requires immediate medical intervention, typically with epinephrine. The other options listed, such as mild headache, increased hunger, or insomnia, are not recognized symptoms of anaphylaxis and don't directly relate to the acute physiological changes prompted by an allergic reaction.