Overview
- In most cases, people with allergies develop mild to moderate symptoms, such as watery eyes, a runny nose or a rash.
- However sometimes, exposure to an allergen can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
- This severe reaction happens when an over-release of chemicals puts the person into shock.
- Allergies to food, insect stings, medications and latex are most frequently associated with anaphylaxis.
- A second anaphylactic reaction, known as a biphasic reaction, can occur as long as 12 hours after the initial reaction.
- People who have had a severe allergic reaction are at risk for future reactions. Even if your first reaction is mild, future reactions might be more severe.
- That's why it's important to carry self-injectable epinephrine if you are at risk, and 911 should be dialled in the event of a reaction.
Symptoms
- Anaphylaxis symptoms occur suddenly and can progress quickly. The early symptoms may be mild, such as a runny nose, a skin rash or a "strange feeling."
- These symptoms can quickly lead to more serious problems, including:
- Trouble breathing
- Hives or swelling
- Tightness of the throat
- Hoarse voice
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heart beat
- Feeling of doom
- Cardiac arrest
- Understanding anaphylaxis and the things that can trigger this severe allergic reaction will help you manage your condition.
Diagnosis
- Allergists have the training and expertise to review your history of allergic reactions, conduct diagnostic tests (such as skin-prick tests, blood tests and oral food challenges) to determine your triggers, review treatment options and teach avoidance techniques.
- Consultation with an allergist is recommended if:
- You’re unsure whether you have had an anaphylactic reaction.
- Your symptoms are recurring or are difficult to control.
- You’re having trouble managing your condition.
- More tests are needed to determine the cause of your reactions.
- Desensitization or immunotherapy could be helpful in your case.
- Daily medication is needed.
- You need intensive education on avoidance and anaphylaxis management.
- Other medical conditions complicate your treatment.
Management & Treatment
- An anaphylactic reaction should be treated immediately with an injection of epinephrine (adrenaline).
- Doses, available by prescription, come in an auto-injector that should be kept with you at all times.
- Two injections may be necessary to control symptoms. Here are some tips for reducing the risk of anaphylaxis:
- If you’ve had anaphylaxis, it’s very important to know what triggered the reaction.
- An allergist can review your medical history and, if necessary, conduct diagnostic tests.
- Avoidance is the most effective way to prevent anaphylaxis.
- An allergist can work with you to develop specific avoidance measures tailored specifically for your age, activities, occupation, hobbies, home environment and access to medical care.
- Prompt recognition of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis is critical.
- If you unexpectedly come into contact with your trigger, you should immediately follow the emergency plan outlined by your doctor including the self-administration of epinephrine.
- If there is any doubt about the reaction, it is generally better to administer the epinephrine.
- If a severe reaction does occur and epinephrine is administered, you should be transported to the nearest emergency facility by ambulance for additional monitoring.
- Family and friends should be aware of your condition, your triggers and know how to recognize anaphylactic symptoms. If you carry epinephrine, alert them to where you keep it and how to use it.
- Wear and/or carry identification or jewelry (bracelet or necklace) noting condition and offending allergens.
- Allergists have the training and expertise to review your allergy history, conduct diagnostic tests, review treatment options and teach avoidance steps.