If you or someone you know is experiencing severe allergic reactions, it is important to get medical help quickly. It is not uncommon for people to develop anaphylactic shock if they do not receive treatment as soon as they experience symptoms. The severity of anaphylactic shock may be dependent on the type of allergy and the person’s overall health. However, there are some simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of experiencing anaphylaxis.
The first step is to call 911. Your call should include information about your allergy, including the offending allergen. This will allow the emergency medical team to determine whether or not you need to be treated for anaphylaxis.
You should also wear identification, such as a bracelet, to alert emergency medical personnel and other people around you. Also, you should be prepared to administer epinephrine, which is an injectable medicine used to treat anaphylaxis. In addition, you should be prepared to carry a self-injectable epinephrine auto-injector. An epinephrine auto-injector contains a needle that you can use to administer epinephrine directly into the thigh muscle.
In most cases, anaphylaxis begins within minutes of contact with the offending allergen. However, it can develop after an insect bite or after taking certain medications. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include tightness in the lungs, swelling of the tongue, hives, and difficulty breathing. Some people may also experience a rash or skin rash.
Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening if it is not treated as soon as possible. People who have asthma or food allergies are at a greater risk of developing anaphylaxis. Children with these disorders are at a higher risk for anaphylaxis as well. Parents should teach their children how to identify anaphylaxis and how to respond.
You should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector and other emergency medicines, such as a chewable antihistamine. You should also see a doctor for a consultation if you are experiencing anaphylaxis. For more information, visit a specialist allergy clinic.
Anaphylaxis can happen anytime, but it is more likely to happen during the hours you eat. Foods with peanuts and tree nuts are common triggers. Other foods that can cause anaphylaxis are shellfish, eggs, and dairy products. Always read food labels. A good rule of thumb is to ask restaurant staff about ingredients before you eat.
Anaphylaxis symptoms can be a confusing combination of many different things. They can also be mistaken for other health problems. There is no single definitive way to tell what is causing your reaction, so you should take care to stay as calm and relaxed as possible. Ensure that your airway is open and keep your head tilted back as you breathe.
When you develop symptoms of anaphylaxis, you should remove any triggering material, if possible, and lay down flat. Your blood pressure may drop dramatically, which can lead to cardiac arrest. After you have taken your medication, you should be able to breathe. Continue to breathe until professional assistance arrives.
If you have had anaphylaxis before, you should take precautions to avoid triggering it again. Wear your medical alert jewelry, keep your epinephrine auto-injector updated, and carry an epinephrine shot with you.
