Anaphylaxis

Allergy is a simple and common condition, but when it becomes anaphylaxis, then it’s an extremely severe condition that might be life-threatening in some cases if it isn’t managed immediately.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a strong allergic reaction from the body against a certain thing. In a normal allergy reaction, the immune system in the body reacts against the allergen by secreting certain chemicals, such as histamines, and that leads to certain symptoms. However, in the case of anaphylaxis, this reaction becomes extremely strong and leads to serious symptoms that might be life-threatening.

Causes of anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis could occur due to anything that causes an allergic reaction in a person, such as certain foods, some medications, certain substances like latex, and the stings of some insects.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis symptoms usually occur within minutes after being exposed to the allergen, but in some cases, the symptoms might not start appearing until after half an hour or more.

Early symptoms:

• Hives.
• Red and itchy skin.
• Swelling in the throat, tongue, and lips.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Abdominal pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest tightness.
• Wheezing.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.

Severe symptoms:

• Low blood pressure.
• Extreme weakness.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Cardiac arrest.
• Anaphylactic shock, which is a condition that causes severe low blood pressure and swelling in the airways, which might make the patient unable to breathe.

Diagnosis of anaphylaxis

• Anaphylaxis is usually diagnosed depending on the symptoms.
• The doctor might run some tests in some cases.

Treatment of anaphylaxis

• The only emergency treatment for anaphylaxis is the adrenalin (epinephrine) injection. You must go to the hospital immediately in case the symptoms don’t relieve within 15 minutes.
• The patient might receive other treatments in the hospital, such as antihistamines and steroids, in addition to the IV fluids.
• You must pay attention to the fact that in some cases, symptoms might last for hours even after receiving the treatment.