Treating Anaphylaxis

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Overview

Anaphylaxis is a serious, unexpected, potentially fatal allergic response. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that necessitates immediate treatment.

Anaphylaxis Symptoms

• Symptoms of anaphylaxis can progress within a couple of minutes of being open to an allergen (element to which you are allergic). Occasionally symptoms do not happen straight away, but advance after 30 minutes or longer.

Symptoms of mild or modest allergic responses include:

• Skin irritation or hives;
• Inflamed face, lips and eyes;
• Stomach cramps;
• Nausea

Symptoms of anaphylaxis can consist of:

• Reddened or pale skin;
• Inflamed tongue;
• Trouble breathing;
• Out of breath and/or insistent coughing;
• Inflammation and narrowing of the throat and airways;
• Croaky voice or trouble speaking;
• Faintness, collapsing or loss of consciousness.

Causes of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is when your immune system over-reacts to an element that is not generally dangerous. Some triggers of anaphylactic responses consist of:

• Foods (such as nuts or eggs);
• Insect bites (including wasps and bees); and
• Certain medications (such as penicillin).

Tests

• Anaphylaxis can be established based on your depiction of your symptoms and a physical check-up. Your GP might recommend assessments (such as blood tests) to determine what caused the allergic response.

Treatment

Anaphylaxis needs immediate treatment, as it can be a risky, severe condition. Treatment for anaphylaxis consists of:

• Emergency treatment of the allergic reaction;
• Recognizing what you are allergic to.

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