Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. It occurs within seconds or minutes of exposure to something one is allergic to. This could be foods, insect stings, medications and latex. Anaphylaxis happens suddenly, worsens quickly and can be deadly.
Also, anaphylaxis causes the immune system to release a flood of chemicals that can put an individual into shock. There is a sudden drop in blood pressure and narrowing of the airways. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical treatment, including a prompt injection of epinephrine.
Causes of anaphylaxis
This condition occurs when antibodies overreact to something harmless like food. In children, the most common cause is food. For adults, the main cause is medication such as; penicillin, anti-seizure medications, aspirin, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Typical food triggers for children include;
• peanuts
• Shellfish
• Fish
• Milk
• Eggs
• Soy
• Wheat
Symptoms of anaphylaxis
The first signs of anaphylactic reaction may look like typical allergic symptoms such as runny nose or a skin rash. Within about 30 minutes, more serious signs appear. These are;
• coughing, wheezing, pain, itching and tightness in the chest
• Runny or stuffy nose and sneezing
• Fainting, dizziness, confusion or weakness
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing and rapid heart beat
• Swollen or itchy throat, hoarse voice , trouble swallowing
• Swollen or itchy lips or tongue
• Vomiting, diarrhea or cramps
• Weak pulse, paleness
Treatment and Management
An anaphylactic reaction should be treated immediately with an injection of epinephrine. It is the most effective treatment for anaphylaxis and the shot should be given right away (usually in the thigh).
Here are some tips for reducing the risk of anaphylaxis
~ know your trigger : if one has had anaphylaxis, it is important to know what triggered the reaction
~ avoid your trigger : avoidance is the most effective way to prevent anaphylaxis. For instance, for food allergies;
• be a label detective and review all food ingredient labels carefully to uncover potential allergens.
• Also, when eating out, ask the restaurant how food is prepared and what ingredients are used.
For insect sting; Avoid
• walking barefoot in grass
• drinking from open soft drink
• wearing bright colored clothing with flowery patterns.
REFERENCE
1. Mayo Clinic. Anaphylaxis. Available at https://mayoclinic.org
2. American college of allergy, asthma & immunology. Anaphylaxis overview. Available at https://acaai.org
