Anaphylactic Shock diagnosis and test

The diagnosis of anaphylactic shock is based upon characteristic symptoms and signs that occur suddenly after being exposed to a potential trigger, such as a food, medication, or insect sting.

A number of other heath problems can cause symptoms that are similar to those of anaphylaxis. These include a severe asthma attack, a heart attack, a panic attack, or even food poisoning. Evaluation by a specialist can help to clarify the diagnosis.

Tryptase is a protein that is released into the blood during an anaphylactic reaction. An increased amount of tryptase can sometimes be measured in a blood sample collected during the first three hours after anaphylaxis symptoms have begun. Unfortunately, tryptase levels are normal in many people with anaphylactic reactions. For example, it is seldom elevated in food-induced anaphylaxis. Blood tests for tryptase (released from mast cells) might be useful in diagnosing anaphylaxis.

The doctor will ask questions about allergies or any previous allergic reactions you've had.
Whether any particular foods seem to cause a reaction ?
Any medications you take, and if certain medications seem linked to your symptoms ?
Whether you've had allergy symptoms when your skin has been exposed to latex ?
Whether stings from any particular type of insect seem to cause your symptoms ?

To confirm the diagnosis:
Skin allergy testing (with or without patch testing) or RAST blood tests;
Asked to keep a detailed list of what you eat or to stop eating certain foods for a time.

The doctor will want to rule out other conditions as a possible cause of your symptoms, including: