What is a common symptom of anaphylaxis?

Swelling of the lips and throat is a common symptom of anaphylaxis due to the severe allergic reaction it triggers. Anaphylaxis can lead to rapid onset of symptoms, primarily affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The swelling occurs as a result of widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, which can cause the airway to constrict and potentially lead to difficulty breathing.

While itching of the skin, dry cough, and runny nose can be indicative of allergic reactions, they are not as specific to anaphylaxis. Itching usually suggests a less severe allergic response like hives, and both a dry cough and runny nose may not indicate systemic involvement as distinctly as swelling of the lips and throat does. In the context of anaphylaxis, recognizing the potential for airway obstruction is crucial, making swelling of the lips and throat a critical symptom that requires immediate medical attention.