Having allergies is not an inconsequential matter as its symptoms may not only end with hives, itching, swelling, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting or asthma. Allergic reactions can in fact lead to the blocking of the airway and the slowing down of the heartbeat potentially leading to death as in the case of an
. The symptoms of allergy do not only cause misery but it can cost a person’s life making this condition an ominous one that needs careful attendance and monitoring on the patient’s and doctor’s part. An extreme reaction to an allergen called anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock needs immediate medical attention.
The symptoms of an anaphylactic shock include difficulty in breathing, low blood pressure, swelling of the mouth, face, neck and throat as well as itching. The patient may also become flushed and would develop hives. It is an especially alarming manifestation of an anaphylactic shock once the patient becomes unconscious. The most dangerous symptom of an anaphylactic shock is the swelling around the throat which can cause a restriction in the airway and rescue breathing in this case will not be successful. There are even cases wherein a person may not be able to speak during an anaphylactic shock due to the swelling.
An anaphylactic shock is an extreme allergic reaction that occurs when a person is exposed to the substance they are allergic to. An
can also be instigated by an insect or bee sting and this is usually the more common case. Patients who have food allergies and are in a heightened sensitivity when ingesting the food allergen can also suffer from anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock are not completely synonymous terms as anaphylaxis means a severe allergic reaction whereas anaphylactic shock is the most extreme form of anaphylaxis that could result to death in just a few moments if help is not immediately sought.
If you or someone you know is prone to anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock, it is essential that you take all precautionary measures in the event that the shock may occur. For those who regularly suffer from anaphylaxis, the doctor may prescribe an anaphylaxis kit. An anaphylaxis kit includes an epinephrine shot that can be injected immediately in case an anaphylactic shock will occur. Epinephrine is a form of adrenaline that speeds the heart beat up and helps keep the airway from constricting. It is essential that the patient keeps the anaphylaxis kit with them at all times to utilize in an anaphylactic shock emergency.
It is also necessary that the person regularly checks the expiration date of the kit as an expired shot may not be potent enough to remedy an anaphylactic shock. If you suspect somebody as having an anaphylactic shock, it is best that you immediately get them to the hospital. It may be wise to call an ambulance as it will get the patient to the hospital faster. While in the ambulance, try giving the patient with an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine or Benadryl as it will combat the histamines that triggered the reaction. It is best to use the liquid form, but if only the capsules are available, they should be broken open and the powder be given directly to the patient.
If you or a family member is prone to severe allergic reactions, it is best to be educated about the condition and the symptoms of anaphylaxis or
so as to be able to respond immediately once an emergency occurs.
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