Severe allergic reactions

Description of Severe allergic reactions

Definition of Severe allergic reaction

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction. It can begin very quickly, and symptoms can be life-threatening.

Causes and Risk Factors of Severe allergic reaction

The most common causes are:

1. Certain foods (especially peanuts)

2. Certain medications

3. Stinging insects

4. Exposure to latex

5. Allergens such as pollens, dust particles and other specific reasons that may vary across individuals

Signs and Symptoms of Severe allergic reaction

Severe allergic reactions can affect the following organs:

1. Skin: itching, hives, redness, swelling

2. Nose: sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose

3. Mouth: itching, swelling of the lips or tongue

4. Throat: itching, tightness, trouble swallowing, swelling of the back of the throat

5. Chest: shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest pain or tightness

6. Heart: weak pulse, passing out, shock

7. Gastrointestinal tract: vomiting, diarrhea, cramps

8. Nervous system: dizziness or fainting

Treatment of Severe allergic reaction

1. It requires immediate medical treatment that includes a prompt injection of epinephrine.

2. The patient needs to be hospitalized for the proper treatment.

Prevention of Severe allergic reaction

Preventive measures:

1. Avoid triggers

2. Drink lots of fluids

3. Keep yourself away from dust

4. Keep epinephrine injectors in close reach for emergency situation

NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Last updated on:

03 Apr 2018 | 01:03 PM (IST)

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