Anafylaksia

Anafylaksia, often referred to as anaphylactic shock, is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen. It is a systemic response, meaning it affects multiple organ systems in the body. The reaction is caused by the immune system mistakenly identifying a normally harmless substance as a threat and releasing large amounts of histamine and other chemicals.

Common triggers for anaphylaxis include certain foods like peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and milk, as well as insect stings or bites, medications, and latex. Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and can develop within minutes or up to an hour after exposure. Initial signs may include itching, hives, or flushing of the skin.

As the reaction progresses, more severe symptoms can emerge. These can include swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing due to airway constriction, wheezing, a drop in blood pressure, rapid heart rate, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can also occur.

The immediate treatment for anaphylaxis is an injection of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. This medication can reverse the effects of the allergic reaction and is often administered by an auto-injector device. Following epinephrine administration, immediate medical attention is crucial, as a second phase of the reaction can sometimes occur hours later. Prevention involves strict avoidance of known allergens and carrying an epinephrine auto-injector at all times for individuals with a history of anaphylaxis.