What Is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that develops rapidly and requires immediate emergency medical treatment. It occurs when the immune system releases large amounts of chemicals in response to an allergen, causing widespread effects throughout the body, including difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and swelling of the airway.
Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can quickly become fatal.
Why Anaphylaxis Matters
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. Early recognition, immediate use of epinephrine when prescribed, and rapid emergency medical care greatly improve the chances of a full recovery.
Common Causes of Anaphylaxis
- Peanuts and tree nuts
- Shellfish and fish
- Milk and eggs
- Certain medications
- Bee, wasp, and other insect stings
- Latex
- Rarely, exercise or unknown triggers
Signs and Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Wheezing
- Hives
- Severe itching
- Flushed skin
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Loss of consciousness
How Is Anaphylaxis Treated?
The first-line treatment for anaphylaxis is immediate administration of epinephrine using an auto-injector when available, followed by emergency medical care. Additional treatment may include oxygen, intravenous fluids, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and close observation in a healthcare setting.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals help individuals with severe allergies by ensuring allergy information is readily available, encouraging avoidance of known allergens, recognizing early symptoms of anaphylaxis, assisting with emergency action plans, and ensuring prescribed epinephrine auto-injectors are readily accessible.
Home Care Tip
If you have been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, carry it with you at all times and make sure family members and caregivers know how and when to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anaphylaxis
Can antihistamines treat anaphylaxis?
No. Antihistamines may help relieve some allergy symptoms, but they do not replace epinephrine, which is the recommended first-line treatment for anaphylaxis.
Can anaphylaxis happen more than once?
Yes. Individuals with severe allergies remain at risk for future reactions if they are exposed to the triggering allergen.
Should I still go to the hospital after using epinephrine?
Yes. Even if symptoms improve, emergency medical evaluation is necessary because symptoms can return after initial treatment.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Call emergency medical services immediately if you or someone else develops difficulty breathing, throat swelling, severe dizziness, fainting, or any signs of anaphylaxis. If prescribed, administer epinephrine without delay while waiting for emergency responders.