Anaphylaxis
What is anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction. The most common anaphylactic reactions are to foods, insect stings, medications and latex.
What’s the difference between common allergies and someone who is anaphylactic?
Common allergies are usually mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion and rashes. These symptoms are not life-threatening and do not pose a threat. Children with anaphylaxis have extreme symptoms such as trouble breathing, low blood pressure, weak or rapid pulse, chest pain, hives and welts. It can also include swelling of the face, throat, lips and tongue. They can experience abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms all together are life-threatening.
How many people are affected by this condition?
Food allergies alone, (not including insect stings, medications and latex), affect 15 million Americans. 1 in every 13 children under the age of 18.
Can it be cured?
Currently there is no cure for this condition. Almost 200 people die from an attack every year. Prevention programs are urged to be taught of how to avoid an attack and what to do when you have one.
What medications can you take for it?
There is no medications that can be taken for this condition. If somebody were to go into an attack they should have an autoinjector epinephrine pen with them. Training on how to use this medication pen should be taught. A wristband or medical tag should be worn to alert others of the condition.