by Barry Marcus

Created on: June 03, 2009

Anaphylaxis is an acute allergic reaction that affects the entire body and can result in rapid death if untreated. The most severe form of anaphylaxis is anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis results from exposure of an allergic person to an allergen causing the body to release huge quantities of immunological mediators

The symptoms of anaphylaxis can begin to occur within seconds of exposure to the allergen, but their onset may be delayed by up to an hour.

The most common early symptoms are flushing or redness of the skin (erythema) and itching and hives. A feeling of impending doom, anxiety and a rapid or irregular pulse follow.

Next are swelling of the throat and tongue resulting in hoarseness, difficulty in swallowing and breathing. Possible rhinitis symptoms including a runny nose, sneezing, nausea and vomiting.

The symptoms include a huge drop in blood pressure and difficulty in breathing from the swelling of the bronchial tubes (bronchiospasm). Dizziness, confusion and even loss of conciousness may result from the drastically reduced blood pressure.

Anaphylaxis must be taken seriously and treatment must never be delayed. If the patient is carrying an EpiPen, administer this immediately. The EpiPen contains a measured dose of epinephrine (adrenalin) which may help to reverse some of the symptoms. To administer the EpiPen, simply open the outer container and hit the front of the injector against the thigh. A syringe is automatically released providing a dose of adrenalin to the patient. The EpiPen is very effective and fast acting, but administration must be followed by immediate medical attention.

If the patient has stopped breathing, lost conciousness or has no pulse then CPR should be administered.

The general rule applied to the correctness of diagnosis is that at least two of the symptoms are present.

If the patient is able to swallow, anti histamine tablets may be given.

Call for emergency help immediately! In cases of severe anaphylactic shock, every second counts. An ambulance is the preferred method of transport as oxygen and other treatments may be administered while on route. If there is likely to be a long delay in obtaining an emergency vehicle then take to patient to the nearest emergency centre without delay. Call the hospital in advance so that is it prepared to receive and treat the emergency on arrival.

Oxygen is usually provided to enable the patient to continue to breathe. In extreme cases, oxygen may be provided by tubes through

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