Anaphylactic shock, also known as anaphylaxis, is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction and a medical emergency. It occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a trigger, releasing chemicals that cause a range of symptoms affecting multiple systems in the body.
Understanding anaphylactic shock, its triggers, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for effectively managing and potentially preventing this serious condition.
What Triggers Anaphylactic Reaction?
The most common trigger for an anaphylactic reaction is exposure to allergens. These allergens can vary from person to person but commonly include certain foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and eggs, as well as insect stings, medications (such as antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and latex.
Additionally, stinging insects, such as bees, wasps, or ants, can also provoke severe allergic reactions. For instance, a bluebottle sting, though not as common as bee stings, causes a risk of anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.
In some cases, physical factors like exercise or cold temperatures can also trigger anaphylaxis, known as exercise-induced or cold-induced anaphylaxis.
Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
Initially, the symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction may mimic those of a common allergy, such as a runny nose or a skin rash. However, within approximately 30 minutes, more severe manifestations become evident.
Common signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Coughing or wheezing
- Chest pain, tightness, or itching
- Fainting, dizziness, confusion, or weakness
- Hives, rash, or itchy, swollen, or red skin
- Runny or congested nose, along with sneezing
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
- Swelling or itching of the lips or tongue
- Swelling, itchiness, a hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing, or tightness in the throat
- Vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, or abdominal pain
- Weak pulse and paleness
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
Some individuals may also experience a profound sense of impending doom just before the onset of an attack. Symptoms can escalate rapidly to shock and unconsciousness.
It’s essential to note that as many as 1 out of every 5 people may encounter a second episode of anaphylaxis within 12 hours of the initial reaction, known as biphasic anaphylaxis. This highlights the unpredictable and potentially life-threatening nature of anaphylactic reactions, necessitating prompt recognition and intervention.
How Long Does Anaphylactic Shock Take?
The onset of anaphylactic shock can vary from person to person and depends on factors such as the individual’s sensitivity to the allergen and the route of exposure. In some cases, symptoms can develop rapidly within minutes of exposure to the allergen, while in others, they may take up to an hour or more to appear. It is essential to recognize the signs of anaphylaxis promptly and seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications.
First Aid for Anaphylactic Shock
Prompt action is crucial when someone experiences anaphylactic shock. The first step is to administer epinephrine, commonly delivered via an auto-injector known as an EpiPen. Epinephrine works rapidly to constrict blood vessels, relax smooth muscles, and alleviate severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and low blood pressure. It is important to administer epinephrine as soon as symptoms of anaphylaxis occur, even if the diagnosis is uncertain, as delaying treatment can be life-threatening.
The Four Stages of Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis typically progresses through four stages, although not everyone may experience all stages or in the same order:
- Onset: Symptoms begin to appear shortly after exposure to the allergen, often within minutes. These symptoms can vary widely but commonly include itching, hives, swelling, and respiratory distress.
- Early Reaction: Symptoms worsen rapidly, with the individual experiencing more severe respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Cardiovascular symptoms may also develop, including a rapid or weak pulse, low blood pressure, and dizziness.
- Late Reaction: Without prompt treatment, symptoms may continue to worsen, leading to a further drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and shock. This stage can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
- Recovery: With appropriate treatment, symptoms begin to resolve, and the individual’s condition stabilises. However, close monitoring is necessary as symptoms can recur or worsen without warning.
What to Do Without an EpiPen
If someone experiences anaphylactic shock and does not have access to an EpiPen, it is essential to seek emergency medical assistance immediately. While epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, other supportive measures can help manage symptoms until medical help arrives. These may include maintaining an open airway, administering CPR if necessary, and positioning the individual lying flat with their legs elevated to improve blood flow.
After the initial emergency has passed, it is crucial to follow up with an allergy specialist, particularly if the cause of the reaction is unknown. An allergy specialist can conduct comprehensive allergy testing, including skin tests and blood tests, to identify specific triggers and develop a personalised treatment plan.
CONTACT GREG KEILY CHEMIST
If you want help and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to Greg Keily Chemist. Located at 98 Marine Parade, Southport, our pharmacy is dedicated to serving the community’s health needs. You can also contact us at 07 5555 7877 to inquire about the medical supplies you may need.
Greg Keily Chemist is an after-hours chemist shop that has been serving the Southport community for four decades by providing the best over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
Our qualified and experienced pharmacists are always available for all your medication needs.
