Who is at risk for having an anaphylactic reaction?
Anyone with a previous history of anaphylactic reactions is at risk for having another severe reaction. Also at risk are those with a personal or family history of allergic conditions, such as asthma, eczema, or hayfever. Individuals who have asthma in addition to food allergies may be at increased risk for having a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction to food. A recent study showed that teens with food allergy and asthma appear to be at the highest risk for a reaction, because they are more likely to dine away from home, are less likely to carry medications, and may ignore or not recognize symptoms.