Which symptom may indicate anaphylaxis during dialysis?

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly, often presenting with specific symptoms. One of the hallmark signs of anaphylaxis is the rapid swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, which can lead to difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking due to airway constriction. This can pose an immediate threat to life and requires prompt medical intervention, such as the administration of epinephrine.

In the context of dialysis, recognizing such symptoms is crucial for patient safety. During treatment, the presence of rapid swelling should alert healthcare providers to the possibility of an anaphylactic reaction, triggering a need for immediate evaluation and action.

Other symptoms listed, such as increased blood pressure, prolonged bleeding, and visible bruising, do not specifically indicate anaphylaxis. Increased blood pressure could occur for various reasons during dialysis but is not a direct symptom of an allergic reaction. Prolonged bleeding and visible bruising may point to other complications but do not align with the acute response of anaphylaxis and its typical presentation. The key focus should always be on recognizing those signs that suggest a rapid and severe allergic response—such as swelling—so that the appropriate and necessary emergency measures can be taken swiftly.