Neurological Symptoms
Most of the neurological symptoms of anaphylaxis are a result of compromised blood supply to the brain. This can be manifested as:
- Syncope: syncope is the temporary and sudden loss of consciousness or passing out. About 13% of anaphylactic patients report loss of consciousness or fainting. As stated above, the increased volume of fluid leaving the vessels due to increased permeability, and the accompanying vasodilation, leads to drop in blood pressure. It can cause the blood to pool in the lower areas of the body due to gravity. An attempt to stand therefore, cause the blood to pool in the legs and compromise the brain’s blood supply. Within seconds, the fainting spell ensues.
- Dizziness: it is another symptom which has a similar underlying reason. The patient may feel blurriness, and the surroundings spinning.
- Headache: is also linked to abnormality in respiratory or cardiovascular systems.
- Confusion: the initial spell of anaphylaxis is equipped with confusion and mental clouding. The patient may be unable to comprehend surroundings. It may also be difficult to assess the degree of sudden loss of control of voluntary functions. Thought incoherence is another feature neurological symptoms of anaphylaxis.