Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur when the body is exposed to certain triggers, such as food, medications, insect stings, or latex. Learn more about the causes of anaphylaxis and how it can be prevented and treated here.
What is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs when the body comes in contact with an allergen. Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, and throat; difficulty breathing; difficulty swallowing; hives or itching; rash; chest tightness and wheezing; dizziness and nausea; and a drop in blood pressure. Treatment must be given promptly to prevent serious health consequences or death.
What Causes Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is most commonly caused by foods and medications, like peanuts, tree nuts, milk and eggs; penicillin; insulin; and aspirin. Insect stings and latex may also cause anaphylactic shock. If a person has an allergic reaction to something but does not have any of these symptoms, it is not considered anaphylaxis. However it’s important to still seek medical help immediately if any of the above symptoms occur after exposure to an allergen.
Recognizing Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, hives, itchiness, swelling in the throat, chest tightness, nausea, dizziness, abdominal pain and confusion. These can appear immediately after exposure to a trigger allergen or can be delayed for several hours. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if these symptoms are present.
Preventing Anaphylaxis
When it comes to anaphylaxis, prevention is the best form of treatment. It is important to understand your triggers and take steps to avoid exposure, such as carrying an epinephrine auto-injector in case of an emergency. Additionally, individuals should also look into allergen immunotherapy if recommended by their doctor, as this can help build up a tolerance for certain allergens.
Treating Anaphylaxic Shock
At the first sign of anaphylaxis, it is important to act quickly by administering epinephrine followed by a call for emergency medical attention. Depending on the severity and progression of symptoms, other treatment may be necessary such as antihistamines to reduce itching, hives and swelling; corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation; and adrenaline or bronchodilators via inhalation to open airways. Additionally, oxygen may also be provided. If breathing becomes impaired during anaphylactic shock, medications are available through an intramuscular injection or intravenous route if needed.
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