Anaphylactic shock

Anaphylactic Shock (also known as anaphylaxis),  is a
severe allergic reaction which has a rapid onset following contact
with the allergen. This is a medical emergency and requires
immediate medical attention.

DESCRIPTION

Anaphylactic Shock occurs rapidly (sometimes even explosively)
when a sensitive individual comes in contact with an allergen, or
allergy producing substance. The most common causes of Anaphylactic
Shock are foreign blood products (used during medical procedures),
certain drugs, desensitising injections (given to improve the
symptoms of allergy) and insect stings. Anaphylactic Shock can also
be aggravated or induced by exercise.

There is no evidence that reactions become more severe with
repeated exposure to an allergen. It is not possible to predict
when a fatal or very severe Anaphylactic episode will occur. Quick
and appropriate management after recovery from a severe reaction
may be protective against a fatal recurrence. Identifying the cause
and avoiding the harmful allergen along with effective treatment of
asthma for those with food allergy, immunotherapy for sting
allergy, the avoidance of drugs that cause anaphylaxis, and
effective training in self-treatment are crucial factors in the
prevention of fatal Anaphylactic Shock.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Typically in 1 to 15 minutes the patient feels uneasy, becomes
agitated and flushed, and complains of palpitations (increased
awareness of the heartbeat), tingling in the hands, feet and lips,
itching, throbbing in the ears, coughing, sneezing, hives and
swelling, and difficulty breathing owing to swelling and spasm in
the lungs. Nausea, [vomiting], abdominal pain, and diarrhoea are
less common. The manifestations of shock may develop within another
1 or 2 minutes and the patient may become incontinent, convulse,
become unresponsive and die. Ultimately heart failure may occur
with or without breathing problems.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND REQUIRES IMMEDIATE
ATTENTION BY A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER.

Medical treatment is immediate injection with
adrenaline(adrenaline). While seeking medical assistance normal
principles of first aid apply.

If the poisonous substance is on the skin, wash it off with water;
if the substance has been inhaled, remove the patient from the area
if it is safe to do so. Help the victim into the most comfortable
position for breathing. Monitor their airways, breathing and
circulation. Keep the patient warm and reassured. If the patient’s
heart should stop beating commence cardiopulmonary
resuscitation.

To prevent Anaphylactic Shock avoid contact with the allergen where
possible and inform your Doctor of any medications which you may be
allergic to. Patients allergic to particular insect stings or foods
will be provided with an adrenaline (epinephrine) delivery device
such as the EpiPen, an easy-to-use device with a concealed needle
to allow for prompt, self treatment.

Some people may be able to undergo venom immunotherapy
(desensitisation) to reduce their sensitivity to certain allergens.
Ask your Doctor for advice.

PHARMACIST’S ADVICE

1. Ask your Pharmacist for advice.Always keep your Pharmacist
   informed of any medications which you may be allergic
   to. 
2. Ask your Pharmacist about ‘medic alert’ tags. These are
   bracelets or necklaces which are worn by people known to be
   allergic to certain substances including foods, medication. latex
   or insect stings. The tags instruct others on their condition in
   the event of an emergency.
3. Keep others informed of your condition and what to do if you
   were to go into Anaphylactic Shock.
4. Ask your Pharmacist about adrenaline delivery devices such as
   the EpiPen, an easy-to-use device with a concealed needle.