[21F] Experiencing allergic reaction with tongue swelling and uncontrollable shaking

Patient Description

A 21-year-old female developed symptoms suggestive of an allergic reaction, including a swollen tongue, particularly at the tip, and a sensation of throat closure, followed by uncontrollable shaking in the hands and legs. These symptoms occurred approximately 10 minutes after consuming chicken, a food known to cause her stomach pain. The shaking has been persistent for a few hours. The patient has a history of depression, anxiety, and a premature heartbeat diagnosed at age 10, and is currently taking Junel birth control pills. There is a family history of allergies. No other medications, vitamins, or supplements are being taken. The patient has a known allergy to caraway seeds but no known medication allergies. No fever, hives, rash, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes were reported. The patient initially felt lightheaded, but that symptom has resolved.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, your symptoms could be due to:

  • Food Allergy: Your symptoms of tongue swelling, throat tightness, and shaking could be indicative of an allergic reaction, possibly to chicken since they occurred shortly after eating it. Food allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from mild (like hives, stomach pain, and itching) to severe (like difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction).

  • Anxiety or Panic Attack: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms like shaking, feeling like your throat is closing, and feeling lightheaded. Since you have a history of anxiety, it's possible that your symptoms could be related.

What you can do

  1. If you suspect a food allergy, avoid eating chicken and see if your symptoms improve. It would be a good idea to see an allergist for testing to confirm whether you have a chicken allergy.

  2. If your symptoms are due to anxiety, techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation strategies might help. However, if your anxiety is affecting your quality of life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience difficulty breathing, severe throat tightness, or any other severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of a severe allergic reaction.

  • If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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1 yr ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a food allergy?

Common symptoms of a food allergy include hives, itching, swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.


Can anxiety cause physical symptoms similar to an allergic reaction?

Yes, anxiety can cause physical symptoms that mimic those of an allergic reaction, such as shaking, a sensation of throat closure, lightheadedness, and rapid heartbeat. These symptoms are part of the body's 'fight or flight' response.


How can I differentiate between an allergic reaction and an anxiety attack?

Differentiating between an allergic reaction and an anxiety attack can be challenging. Allergic reactions often include skin symptoms like hives or swelling, while anxiety attacks may involve feelings of panic or fear. If in doubt, especially if breathing difficulties are present, seek medical attention immediately.


What steps should I take if I suspect I have a food allergy?

If you suspect a food allergy, avoid the suspected food and consult with an allergist for testing. Keep a food diary to track symptoms and potential triggers. In case of severe reactions, carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed by a doctor.


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