Hello candiestripe,

These sound like symptoms of anaphylaxis (allergic shock) to me. You can read more about anaphylaxis here, but if I were you, I'd consult an allergist. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can get progressively worse each time it occurs.

It's important to try to figure out what may have caused it. One of the most common causes of anaphylactic shock is food allergies. One can be allergic to almost anything theoretically, but some of the most common foods that cause allergy are shellfish, peanuts and tree nuts, eggs and milk. Another common cause is being stung by stinging insects such as bees, wasps, hornets or fire ants.

People who know they are at risk of anaphylaxis usually carry injectable epinephrine, such as an Epi-Pen with them at all times, because immediate treatment is necessary to prevent serious harm.

The allergist can help you figure out what you might be allergic to through testing. You can also think back about what you were doing or what may have happened shortly before your reaction started. The allergist can also prescribe the Epi-Pen if necessary.

To your health,

Kathi