Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death. The reaction can occur a few seconds to as long as an hour after exposure to the allergen. It is a medical emergency, and in most cases it requires immediate treatment and then follow-up care by an allergist. Anaphylaxis is triggered when the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance such as food or medicines. The symptoms may be mild to severe and affect various body organ systems.

Each person may experience symptoms of anaphylaxis differently. The most common symptoms include:

• Respiratory system: chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing, throat tightness, cough, itchy mouth/throat, nasal congestion
• Cardiac system: low heart rate, pale/blue color, dizziness, low blood pressure, lightheadedness
• Skin and mucous membranes: hives all over body, swelling, itchiness, redness, itchy/watery/red eyes
• Gastrointestinal system: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache
• Other symptoms: anxiety, feeling of “impending doom”

The most dangerous symptoms, which should prompt an urgent 9-1-1 call, include breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness and low blood pressure. All of these can be fatal.

The allergen triggering anaphylaxis can vary for each allergic person. However, some of the more common causes of anaphylaxis include:

• Foods – Any food can cause an allergic reaction, but the foods that cause the most cases of anaphylaxis are peanuts, tree nuts (such as walnuts, cashews and almonds), shellfish, fish, milk and eggs.
• Medications – Any medication can cause an allergic reaction. However, common medications that cause anaphylaxis are antibiotics and anti-seizure medications.
• Stinging insects – Yellow jackets, honeybees, paper wasps, hornets and fire ants can inject venom during a sting causing a severe and even fatal reaction in some people.
• Latex – Some products made from natural rubber contain latex allergens that can cause a severe allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and immediate medical attention is necessary. The sooner the reaction is treated, the less severe it will become.

Those with a severe allergy may be prescribed epinephrine autoinjectors, which are shots of adrenaline that relieve breathing problems and improve heart rate and blood pressure. This medication should be carried at all times. Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may also be given for itching and hives. Oral steroids may be given to reduce further allergic inflammation.

Those with severe allergies should wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies the allergy in case of an anaphylactic reaction. Family, friends, employers, and school staff should be informed and educated about the allergy. This way, they will be able to recognize the problem and better assist if a reaction occurs.