Anaphylaxis is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is caused by foods, certain medications, insect venoms and latex. The immune system in your body produces antibodies that defend against foreign substances and allergens. Antibodies attached to these foreign substances release certain chemicals that can cause allergy signs and symptoms such as watery eyes and a running nose. Anaphylaxis occurs when your immune system severely reacts to a particular allergen. The chemicals released in your body during anaphylaxis drops your blood pressure suddenly and make your bronchial tubes narrow, leading to breathlessness or even unconsciousness and death. An anaphylactic response occurs within seconds or minutes of coming in contact to an allergen such as the venom from a bee sting or an ingested peanut.
Anaphylaxis is considered as the most dangerous type of allergic reaction, it's also the least common. If you know the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis you can respond quickly and effectively to an allergy emergency and by carrying emergency medication with you. It's very important to do everything in order to prevent exposure to such a life-threatening allergen.
An anaphylactic reaction occurs mostly in susceptible people who've been stung by a bee, allergic to various foods, or taken a medication that they are sensitive to. The effects of anaphylaxis aren't limited to the site of the exposure and immediately spread to other parts of the body. The signs and symptoms of Anaphylaxis develop within minutes of exposure to an allergen which strongly indicates your vulnerability to the allergen.
Breathlessness, a swollen tongue or throat, sudden decrease of blood pressure causing shock, Weak and rapid pulse, Dizziness or loss of consciousness, Hives and itching on the body surface, pale skin, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea are common signs and symptoms of Anaphylaxis.
The causes of anaphylaxis
The cause of an anaphylactic reaction is mostly unknown. The most common causes of anaphylaxis are Drugs, like penicillin, Foods such as peanuts, walnuts, pecans, milk, eggs, fish and shellfish and insect bites from bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and fire ants. Latex is also a very common cause of the allergy.
An anaphylaxis is not a common allergic reaction. People are at a high risk of life if they have anaphylactic reaction. People with allergies, asthma are more susceptible to anaphylaxis. If anyone had anaphylaxis before he or she may be more in danger of another anaphylaxis attack.
Screening and diagnosis of anaphylaxis include evaluation of the individual’s reaction to certain food, medicines, latex and insect stings. Blood and skin test are also conducted to determine the exact cause of anaphylaxis.
Treatment of Anaphylaxis
Adrenaline or epinephrine is the most common drug used to treat anaphylaxis. You can inject the drug yourself with the help of an auto injector like EpiPen, Twinject or epiPen Jr. always carry an epinephrine auto injector with you after consulting your doctor.
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