Anaphylactic shock
Anaphylactic shock is the body's reaction to an allergen. Reactions usually develop within an hour of exposure to the allergen, and can be life-threatening.
Symptoms usually develop soon after exposure to the allergen. Characteristic symptoms can be divided into categories depending on the affected organ:
- Skin and mucous membrane
- Swelling and redness around the eyes
- Swelling of the lips and tongue
- Urticaria, itching, redness
- Respiratory system
- Difficulty breathing
- Noisy breathing
- Cough
- Throat swelling and choking sensation
- Cardiovascular system
- Rapid pulse
- Drop in blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Excessive sweating
- Digestive system
- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nervous system
- Headache
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
It is important for people with allergies to be able to recognize the symptoms associated with anaphylactic shock. The sooner they can identify the reaction, the faster they can get treatment. During an anaphylactic reaction, the person experiencing it may not be able to manage the reaction on their own. It is therefore important to inform the family and friends about the symptoms to watch for and how to take action.
Causes and triggers
The most common causes of anaphylactic shock are food, insects (stings), some medications and latex. Certain foods are more likely to trigger this type of reaction than others:
- Eggs
- Seafood and fish
- Nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios, etc.)
- Peanuts
- Milk
Asthma and certain lung or heart diseases may increase the severity of reactions.
Treatment
In the event of anaphylactic shock, have the person sit or lie on their side if necessary. Make sure the airways are clear to help them breathe more easily.
Then, promptly administer the epinephrine in the outer thigh muscle. Another auto-injector can be given every 5 to 15 minutes, until a suitable response is achieved or until emergency services arrive.
Emergency services must be called immediately after giving epinephrine.
The best way to prevent this type of reaction is to avoid known allergens whenever possible. Any person at risk of going into anaphylactic shock (prior anaphylactic shock, severe allergic reaction, etc.) should have an epinephrine auto-injector in their possession (e.g., EpiPen, Allerject, Emerade). Keep in mind that more than one auto-injector may be needed. Therefore, it's advisable to carry more than one, especially when travelling or taking part in activities far from a hospital.
Wearing a medical ID bracelet or tag that indicates your allergies is advised, as it will help first responders make the best decisions in an emergency situation.
If you have any questions or would like to learn how to use the injector, do not hesitate to speak to your pharmacist.