In severe cases of respiratory distress, people may require mechanical ventilation requiring a tube to be placed in the airway. In rare cases, an airway may need to be opened through surgery. Admission to an intensive care unit may be required for further monitoring and treatment. It may be easy to avoid shellfish or peanuts, if that is what caused the reaction. Read food label ingredients and ask about ingredients when ordering food at restaurants.
Insect stings are more difficult to avoid.
Wear long-sleeved clothing outdoors. Avoid bright colors and perfumes that attract stinging insects. Use caution with sweetened beverages outdoors, such as uncovered soft drinks. People who are likely to be re-exposed to an allergen that has caused them a severe anaphylactic reaction in the past should consider seeing an allergist for desensitization. Skin testing may be required to help identify the allergen.