Anaphylaxis is a high-level allergic reaction generated by coming into contact with something (allergen) to which the patient is allergic. The most common thing is that it occurs because something that causes an allergy has been ingested during a meal, because an insect bite has occurred, or because one enters an area where a substance that causes an allergy is inhaled. Anaphylaxis is serious and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Depending on each case, anaphylaxis can occur in a few seconds or in a few hours.
Anaphylaxis causes the body’s immune system to release a series of chemicals that cause blood pressure to decrease and the airways to constrict, making it difficult to breathe. This condition is usually accompanied by skin rashes. When an anaphylactic outbreak occurs, urgent medical attention must be sought. Normally the patient should be given an injection of epinephrine.
Causes of anaphylaxis
Extreme allergic reaction
The causes of anaphylaxis are in all cases very intense allergic reactions in which the immune system generates antibodies disproportionately. In the majority of allergic reactions, a level of severity that involves risk to life is not observed, but in the case of anaphylaxis the allergic reaction is extreme and very dangerous.
The most common triggers are food allergies, especially among children. Allergies to nuts, shellfish or dairy products are common. Allergic outbreaks due to medications, such as aspirin or antibiotics, are also common. Another group of very common allergies is allergies to latex or insect bites.
An anaphylactic flare-up is very serious and requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis
Skin rashes, nausea and vomiting
Most often, the symptoms of anaphylaxis appear shortly after coming into contact with the substance that causes the allergy, although in some cases it takes a few hours. There are symptoms that are common in almost all cases:
– Skin rash like hives.
– Vomiting and nausea.
– Hypotension and decreased heart rate.
– Narrowness of the airways.
– Feeling dizzy and even fainting.
Diagnosis of anaphylaxis
Clinical history and analysis
To have a clear diagnosis, the doctor needs to know if there has been a history of allergic reactions in the patient. Additionally, he or she will order a blood test and various skin tests to try to find out which substances are triggering the allergic reaction.
Anaphylaxis treatment and medication
It is essential to have immediate medical attention
The most common urgent treatment is the administration of epinephrine, that is, adrenaline, to stop the allergic outbreak. CPR may also need to be performed if breathing has failed or the heart has stopped beating. Depending on the patient’s condition, oxygen, antihistamines and cortisone must be administered.
In any case, the most important thing is to act quickly because the attack or anaphylactic shock requires extremely urgent health care.
Once the outbreak is over, you should go to the doctor to try to determine what substances cause the allergy and try to prevent new attacks.
Anaphylaxis prevention
Do not expose yourself to substances that cause allergies
Without a doubt, the best prevention is to avoid exposure to substances that cause allergic reactions and always have a kit with useful and good condition medication on hand to be used in case of emergency.
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