What type of shock occurs due to an allergic reaction?

Anaphylactic shock is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction that occurs due to an allergic response. This type of shock can result from the body's immune system overreacting to a substance, known as an allergen, such as certain foods, medications, or insect stings. During an anaphylactic reaction, the immune system releases a flood of chemicals, leading to a rapid decrease in blood pressure, swelling, and difficulty breathing as the airways constrict.

Understanding the physiological changes during anaphylactic shock is crucial for healthcare providers, as prompt recognition and treatment (typically with epinephrine) is essential for patient survival. Other types of shock, such as cardiogenic, septic, and hypovolemic, relate to different underlying causes—such as heart problems, infections, or fluid loss—and do not specifically arise from allergic reactions. Consequently, anaphylactic shock uniquely fits the definition of allergic reactions causing significant cardiovascular and respiratory distress.