Simple Definition:

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction [when the body’s immune system overreacts to a substance it considers harmful]. It can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and a drop in blood pressure].

Examples:

• Eating peanuts can trigger anaphylaxis in individuals with a peanut allergy.
• Getting stung by a bee can lead to anaphylaxis in someone with a bee sting allergy.

Very Simple Definition:

Anaphylaxis is a very bad allergic reaction that can make it hard to breathe and can be very dangerous.

Examples:

• Some people can have a very bad allergic reaction to peanuts that makes it hard for them to breathe.
• Sometimes if someone gets stung by a bee, it can make them very sick and they might have trouble breathing.