Introduction
Anaphylaxis, also called anaphylactic shock, is a life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs quickly. It's caused by a number of things, including insect bites and stings; foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, and fish; medications; latex rubber products; and more. The most common cause of anaphylaxis is insect bites or stings — but there are many other causes.
Anaphylaxis symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on the severity of your allergy and your body's response to it.
What is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause life-threatening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, fainting, and shock. It’s caused by the release of chemicals called histamines when your immune system reacts to something foreign (or harmless) in your body.
Anaphylaxis may be triggered by:
- A single exposure to an allergen
- Food or drink containing allergens
- Another medical condition
What Are The Symptoms Of Anaphylaxis?
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Hives
- Swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness
The symptoms may occur within minutes after exposure to an allergen or up to two hours later. Some people who suffer from anaphylaxis do not know they are having a reaction until after the fact.
If you think that you or someone in your family has been exposed to something that could cause an allergic reaction (e.g., a bee sting), call 911 immediately!
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Anaphylaxis?
Food
There are many different foods that can trigger an allergic reaction in someone with a history of food allergies, so it's important to avoid these foods if you have a known allergy.
Insect Stings and Bites
Be sure to take medication as soon as possible after being stung or bitten by an insect (within 30 minutes) to prevent further swelling and pain while waiting for your body to fight off the venomous proteins in the venomous insect's saliva or bite.
Medications
Some medications may cause severe allergic reactions if taken with other drugs such as aspirin; this is often why doctors will recommend taking these medications at separate times during the day so your body has time to recover between doses of each medicine before beginning another round of treatment again later on down the road!
Latex
Latex products like condoms/diaphragms may contain rubber substances that could cause an allergic reaction if exposed directly to contact with mucous membranes such as eyes or mouth during intercourse without using lubricant first (which should always be applied both inside AND outside these types).
Who's At Risk For Anaphylaxis?
- People with asthma (if they're taking corticosteroids).
- People who have a history of anaphylaxis, such as those who've had it in the past or have family members who've had it before them.
How Can I Prevent Anaphylaxis?
You can prevent anaphylaxis by avoiding the triggers. If you are allergic to one or more foods, it's best to avoid them completely.
You may also be able to minimize your risk of having an anaphylactic reaction if you carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) with you at all times and know how and when to use it in case of emergency.
Do not eat food that causes a reaction in your mouth or throat such as nuts or eggs; peanuts; shellfish; wheat/gluten-containing foods such as spelled pasta etc.; milk products made from cows' milk including cream cheese, yogurt, and ice cream which contain casein rather than lactose sugars found naturally in milk products made from cows' milk
How Is Anaphylaxis a Life-threatening Condition?
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that can affect any part of the body. It's caused by an immune reaction to something in your environment, like insect bites or pollen. Anaphylaxis can also be triggered by food and medication.
Anaphylactic shock occurs when the body's system tries to deal with an overwhelming allergic response and can be fatal if not treated immediately. The symptoms are similar to those experienced during an allergic reaction: sweating, throat tightness, and vomiting; blurred vision; dizziness; difficulty breathing or swallowing (breathing may become shallow); trembling hands or feet; tingling sensation on the face/arms/legs; anxiety/nervousness.
There are several treatments for anaphylaxis, including:
- Epinephrine (adrenaline), is a hormone that helps the body respond to stimuli by increasing blood pressure and heart rate. It also dilates airways to allow more oxygen into the lungs, so it can help ease breathing troubles.
- Antihistamines are drugs that reduce inflammation in your body by interfering with histamine production; they may be given immediately after you have an allergic reaction or at any time during ongoing symptoms. Most antihistamines work best when taken orally with food, but some people report relief from topical applications of these medications as well—including creams or gels like Benadryl and loratadine gel capsules. If you're having trouble swallowing pills, check out our guide on how to take medication safely!
- Steroids like prednisone can help control swelling caused by allergy-induced inflammation; however, there's no guarantee that this treatment will fully heal your condition completely but it does help reduce swelling temporarily while still allowing adequate oxygenation through swollen tissue areas such as eyes/nose/mouth area etcetera.
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that occurs quickly and needs immediate attention. A variety of things can cause it, but it's important to know the symptoms so you can get help fast if necessary.
Symptoms include:
- Breathing problems (wheezing or coughing)
- Swelling of your face, lips, and tongue
- Redness around the mouth and eyes
If these signs occur, call 911 immediately.
Conclusion
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It's important to know the symptoms so you can get help fast if necessary.
0 Comments