Anaphylaxis

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Anaphylaxis is a severe and fast multi-system allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is triggered by a substance, called an allergen, that the body believes is bad. Very small amounts of allergens can still cause anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe medical emergency, as the airway quickly closes. The brain can not survive more than a few minutes without oxygen. Death within minutes is possible. The most severe type, called anaphylactic shock, will cause death very quickly if not treated.

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[edit] Emergency Treatment

Calling for help is very important when dealing with anaphylaxis because medical help is needed immediately. CPR or Rescue breathing may be nessicary if the patient stops breathing on their own. Epinephrine should be administered immediately, because the epinephrine prevents the airway from constricting more and makes the heart to keep beating. Most people who have been diagnosed with anaphylaxis carry an EpiPen (pictured) or similar device to administer epinephrine in the event of anaphylactic shock.

A common epinephrine dispensing device.
A common epinephrine dispensing device.

[edit] Symptoms

The symptoms of anaphylaxis are:

  • respiratory distress, or difficulty breathing,
  • hypotension (low blood pressure),
  • fainting,
  • unconsciousness,
  • urticaria (hives), or itchy spots on the body,
  • flushed appearance,
  • angioedema (swelling of the face, neck and throat),
  • tears(due to angioedema and stress),
  • vomiting,
  • itching, and
  • anxiety, including a sense of impending doom

[edit] Causes

Common causes of anaphylaxis are:

[edit] See Also