What is anaphylaxis?
For anybody who has allergies, they can be quite disrupting to everyday life. However, for a select few, allergies can go from being a nuisance to a life-threatening emergency in the blink of an eye. Anaphylaxis is a severe and immediate allergic reaction that, if left untreated, can cause death. When someone has an anaphylactic reaction, they need emergency treatment right away.
What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?
It is important to be able to spot the signs of anaphylaxis, as early treatment can help to improve the outcome. Initially, anaphylaxis may appear just like a common allergy, with the person experiencing an itchy, runny nose or a skin rash. However, symptoms can progress quickly and include:
- Tightness in the chest
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Faintness
- Trouble breathing
- Paleness
- Weak pulse
- Swollen lips or tongue
Other symptoms may occur as well. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or recognize these symptoms in another person, it is important to seek treatment immediately.
How do you treat anaphylaxis?
Because anaphylaxis presents an immediate and serious threat, treatment is first aimed at addressing life-threatening symptoms. Adrenaline, or epinephrine, is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. When epinephrine enters your bloodstream, it serves as a bronchodilator, meaning that it restores your ability to breathe that you may lose during a severe anaphylactic reaction. It can also help to stabilize your blood pressure, which can drop dangerously low during anaphylaxis.
Many people who know that they are severely allergic to certain triggers carry epinephrine injectors, often called an EpiPen, on them at all times so that they are prepared to treat it if it occurs. In addition, if you suspect that someone near you is having an allergic reaction, seek immediate emergency care for the person by calling 911.
Being prepared for anaphylaxis can help you effectively manage the situation when it arises. The experts at Allergy and Asthma Consultants have years of experience preparing their patients to deal with anaphylaxis, helping to keep them safe.
To learn more about anaphylaxis and how you can prepare yourself or your loved ones, call one of their offices or go online today to schedule your first appointment with the team at Allergy and Asthma Consultants.
