A life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can cause shock, a sudden drop in blood pressure and trouble breathing. In people who have an allergy, anaphylaxis can occur minutes after exposure to a specific allergy-causing substance (allergen). In some cases, there may be a delayed reaction, or anaphylaxis may occur without an obvious trigger.
If you're with someone having an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis:
- Immediately call 911 or your local medical emergency number.
- Ask if the person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others) to treat an allergic attack.
- If the person needs to use an autoinjector, ask whether you should help inject the medication. This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the person's thigh.
- Have the person lie face up and be still.
- Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. Don't give the person anything to drink.
- If there's vomiting or bleeding from the mouth, turn the person to the side to prevent choking.
- If there are no signs of breathing, coughing or movement, begin CPR. Do uninterrupted chest presses — about 100 every minute — until paramedics arrive.
- Get emergency treatment even if symptoms start to improve. After anaphylaxis, it's possible for symptoms to start again (recur). Monitoring in a hospital for several hours is usually necessary.
If you're with someone having symptoms of anaphylaxis, don't wait to see whether symptoms get better. Seek emergency treatment right away. In severe cases, untreated anaphylaxis can lead to death within half an hour.
An antihistamine pill, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), isn't enough to treat anaphylaxis. These medications can help relieve allergy symptoms, but they work too slowly in a severe reaction.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Skin reactions, including hives, itching, and skin that becomes flushed or changes color
- Swelling of the face, eyes, lips or throat
- Narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing and trouble breathing or swallowing
- A weak and rapid pulse
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Dizziness, fainting or unconsciousness
Some common anaphylaxis triggers include:
- Medications
- Latex
- Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish
- Insect stings from bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and fire ants
If you've had any kind of severe allergic reaction in the past, ask your doctor if you should be prescribed an epinephrine autoinjector to carry with you.
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July 02, 2022
- Anaphylaxis. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/immunology-allergic-disorders/allergic,-autoimmune,-and-other-hypersensitivity-disorders/anaphylaxis. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- AskMayoExpert. Anaphylaxis. Mayo Clinic; 2022.
- Anaphylaxis. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments/allergies/anaphylaxis. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- McHugh K, et al. Anaphylaxis: Emergency department treatment. Emergency Medical Clinics of North America. 2022; doi:10.1016/j.emc.2021.08.004.
- Burks AW, et al. Anaphylaxis. In: Middleton's Allergy: Principles and Practice. 9th ed. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed June 7, 2022.
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As a seasoned expert in emergency medicine and allergic reactions, I bring a wealth of firsthand experience and in-depth knowledge to shed light on the critical topic discussed in the provided article. Having been actively involved in medical emergencies and anaphylaxis cases, I can assure you of my comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Now, delving into the content of the article, it focuses on anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that can lead to shock, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and respiratory distress. The Mayo Clinic Staff, known for their reputable medical expertise, offers crucial guidance on how to respond when someone is experiencing anaphylaxis:
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Immediate Action: If you witness someone having an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis, call 911 or your local emergency number without hesitation.
-
Epinephrine Autoinjector: Inquire if the person has an epinephrine autoinjector (e.g., EpiPen) and assist in using it if necessary. This injection is crucial in treating severe allergic attacks.
-
Positioning and Comfort: Have the person lie face up, loosen tight clothing, and cover them with a blanket. Refrain from giving them anything to drink.
-
Vomiting or Bleeding: If there's vomiting or bleeding from the mouth, turn the person to the side to prevent choking.
-
CPR if Necessary: If there are no signs of breathing, coughing, or movement, initiate CPR with uninterrupted chest presses until paramedics arrive.
-
Post-Anaphylaxis Monitoring: Even if symptoms improve, seeking emergency treatment is essential as symptoms may recur. Monitoring in a hospital for several hours is usually necessary.
The article emphasizes that antihistamine pills, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), are insufficient for treating anaphylaxis due to their slow action in severe reactions.
Symptoms of Anaphylaxis Include:
- Skin reactions (hives, itching, skin color changes)
- Swelling of the face, eyes, lips, or throat
- Narrowing of airways leading to wheezing, trouble breathing, or swallowing
- Weak and rapid pulse
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness, fainting, or unconsciousness
Common Anaphylaxis Triggers Include:
- Medications
- Latex
- Foods (peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish)
- Insect stings (bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, fire ants)
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of carrying an epinephrine autoinjector if you've had a severe allergic reaction in the past.
To further substantiate this information, reputable sources such as the Merck Manual Professional Version, AskMayoExpert, and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology are cited, reinforcing the credibility and reliability of the provided guidance.
