Fact Checked
What Is Anaphylaxis?
- Anaphylaxis is a serious, deadly allergic reaction.
- Takes place in response to an allergen.
- Anaphylaxis discharges several chemicals within the body.
- After being exposed to an allergen, a reaction can occur within seconds or minutes.
Anaphylaxis is a serious, deadly allergic response - Statically it occurs in about 30 people per every 100,000 each year.
Disclaimer / Quick Tip
The material posted on this page for breathing emergencies, including anaphylaxis, is for learning purposes only. To learn to recognize, manage and help treat serious breathing emergencies register for a first aid and / or CPR course with one of our training providers today.
What Causes Anaphylaxis?
- Reactions from certain food like eggs, fish, nuts, milk.
- Reactions from certain insect stings like bees etc.
- Latex.
- Certain inoculations.
- Medicines like antibiotics or sedatives.
- Certain plants and animals.
- Some causes are never known.
What Are The Symptoms Of Anaphylaxis?
- There is generally a burning or hot sensation.
- The skin might start to itch and a rash will form.
- The mouth and throat will be inflamed and swell-up.
- The airways will become tight.
- There will be a reduced level of oxygen in the brain.
- There will be symptoms of asthma.
- Person will feel nauseous.
- Stomach cramps will be experienced.
- Diarrhea.
- The lungs start to fill up with fluid.
- Blood pressure will drop.
- The person will feel like they want to faint.
- Loss of consciousness.
Who Is In Danger Of Suffering From Anaphylaxis
- People who have a severe food allergy.
- Those people who have family that have allergic reactions.
- Individuals who have previously had an anaphylactic reaction before.
Treating Anaphylaxis
- If nauseous, the best position would be to lie on your side.
- If you are feeling weak, lie down with your legs raised.
- If you have problems with breathing, sitting up will be easier.
- People suffering from anaphylaxis for the first time should be treated by an expert straightaway.
- Constant supervision is required.
- The treatment required depends on how bad the anaphylaxis is and if any previous episodes have been experienced.
Prevention Of Anaphylaxis
- Stay away from those things that can cause a reaction.
- Notify the teachers, if your kid is at risk.
- Kids should always have allergy tags attached to their arm.
- Emergency practices are required in schools and places of work.
- Enlightening the community is vital.