The Lived Experience of Patients With Idiopathic Anaphylaxis

Abstract

This qualitative study used the descriptive phenomenological approach and the Colaizzi phenomenological method for descriptive analysis to explore the lived experience of individuals with idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA). Semistructured audio-taped interviews were conducted with 14 adult participants with a diagnosis of IA. Findings revealed how individuals with IA perceive their life living with this condition. Five overarching themes were identified from the data: loss of control and confusion, fear, living on alert, negative experiences with health care providers, and the journey for support and affirmation. Individuals with IA need mental health support to cope with living with this condition.