Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis symptoms may happen quickly and suddenly. It commonly affects the respiratory, cardiovascular, cutaneous, and gastrointestinal systems. The early signs of anaphylaxis may show typical allergy symptoms such as hives or itching, but within a few minutes, you may start experiencing more symptoms such as:

• Slurred speech
• Throat tightness
• Flushed or pale skin
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Wheezing or coughing
• Swollen lips, tongue, or throat
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Pain, itching, or tightness in your chest
• Diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, or belly pain

Severe Signs of Anaphylaxis:

• Sudden weakness or weak pulse 
• Light-headedness or confusion
• Drop in blood pressure
• Loss of consciousness
• Cardiac arrest

Given the potentially life-threatening nature of anaphylaxis, it's crucial to always be prepared. If you experienced an anaphylactic reaction before, you may have a higher risk of having another one, especially if you have a family history of anaphylaxis or asthma.

What are the Causes of Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis occurs when an antibody overreacts to a normally harmless substance and can be triggered by various factors. It is crucial for individuals who have this condition to avoid known triggers, carry an epinephrine auto-injector, and seek immediate medical treatment if symptoms arise. Common causes of anaphylaxis include:

• Latex
• Medications
• Insect stings
• Food Allergies
• Animal dander
• Hormonal changes
• Cold or heat exposure
• Pollen or mold exposure
• Exercise-induced anaphylaxis

Anaphylactic reactions typically start within minutes of contact with the trigger but can also occur an hour or more after exposure. In children, it’s usually caused by food, while medications are the common triggers in adults. There are also cases where people never figure out their triggers, which is known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis Treatment Options and Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can diagnose anaphylaxis based on the symptoms of an individual. They will likely refer you to an allergist to perform additional tests. The allergist will perform a skin or blood test to confirm the allergy and identify the specific trigger. 

How is Anaphylaxis Treated?

If you have a severe allergic reaction to food, pollen, or insect stings, your provider will likely prescribe an epinephrine autoinjector (like an EpiPen). During an anaphylactic reaction, it’s crucial to inject the epinephrine into the large muscle of your upper thigh as soon as possible. This medication works quickly to counteract symptoms and stabilize your condition.

After administering the injection, seek emergency medical help immediately by calling 911. If symptoms persist after 5 to 15 minutes, you may need to administer a second dose.

While EpiPens are effective in providing temporary relief, their effects are short-lived. Always follow up with urgent medical care, even if you feel better after using the autoinjector. 

At Premier Allergy TX, our team of allergy specialists is here to guide you through effective allergy management. From allergy shots to personalized treatment plans, we’re dedicated to providing the highest level of care for those battling allergies. Start your journey to better allergy management today.

Receive Expert Anaphylaxis Care

 Take control of your anaphylaxis symptoms and protect your quality of life. Schedule a consultation at Premier Allergy TX today. Our specialists are here to create a personalized anaphylaxis management plan tailored to your needs.