Anaphylaxis

By Alan S. Peterson, M.D.

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis (say “ana-full-ax-iss”) is a life-threatening allergic reaction. It starts soon after you are to exposed something to which you are severely allergic.  You may have swelling, itching, or a rash.  Some people have trouble breathing, a tight feeling in their chest, dizziness, and they feel anxious.  Other people have stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea.  Some people lose consciousness or “pass out”.  

• Foods, such as shell fish, nuts, peanuts, eggs, and fruits
• Medicines, such as antibiotics, aspirin, over-the-counter pain relievers, allergy shots, and contrast dye for x-ray procedures
• Latex, or rubber which is found in surgical gloves, medical supplies and many products in your home
• Insect stings, especially from bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, saw flies, and fire ants

How do I prevent a reaction?

You can do many things to help prevent a reaction.

• If you have had anaphylaxis, make sure your doctor and dentist know and that it is recorded in your chart.  Tell them what you are allergic to, if you know.
• Keep an anaphylaxis kit with you at all times.
• Make sure that the people around you, such as your family and friends know how to use it.
• If you are allergic to insect stings, wear protective clothing and insect repellant when outside.
• Avoid handling or eating foods to which you are allergic.  Even tiny amounts mixed by accident with your food can cause a reaction.  A recent patient of mine had a severe allergy just touching a mango in a supermarket.
• Wear or carry a medic-alert bracelet, necklace, or key chain that warns emergency medical technicians and doctors that you are risk for anaphylaxis.
• Ask your doctor if you need desensitization shots.
• Ask your doctor if there are other things to which you might also be allergic.  In other words, being allergic to one item could make you allergic or cross sensitize you to others even though you may not be aware of that yet.

What is in an emergency anaphylaxis kit? 

An emergency anaphylaxis kit is what you or people around you can use if you have a severe allergic reaction.  You might need medical help right away.  The kit contains epinephrine (adrenaline) that you inject into your arm or leg (or have a friend inject).  Your doctor will prescribe a kit that will have the right dose of medicine and teach you how to use it.  Make sure those around you also know how to use it.  Sometimes your doctor will tell you to keep an antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), in the kit.

What can I expect after an allergic reaction?

You should recover completely with treatment. Most people live a normal, full life. You can get back to your normal activities once you are feeling better. However, you should have someone stay with you for 24 hours after an anaphylactic attack to make sure another attack doesn’t recur as a “rebound”.