First Aid Anaphylaxis

Why Anaphylaxis Happens

Anaphylaxis: What Is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a type of severe, whole-body allergic reaction that happens after exposure to an allergen the body reacts negatively towards. It’s important to identify the allergen and potential cause of or exposure to the allergen as soon as possible. When a person has a severe reaction to an allergen it is called an Anaphylactic Reaction. The person will likely enter a state of Anaphylactic Shock requiring immediate medical assistance and treatment.

Anaphylaxis: Why Anaphylaxis Happens

Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune system responds by releasing large quantities of chemicals called mediators, the most predominant one being histamine into the body. Common triggers include bee stings, latex products like balloons or condoms, certain medications like antibiotics or anaesthesia drugs, and many foods like peanuts or shellfish that can induce fatal reactions. Some people may only experience symptoms after eating the food causing the allergy. Other people may have symptoms any time they encounter the allergen at minute levels.

Anaphylaxis is caused by what body system

Anaphylaxis: What part of the body does anaphylaxis effect?

 Anaphylaxis causes the immune system to release a flood of chemicals that cause the body to go into shock — blood pressure drops suddenly and the airway narrows, constricting or preventing normal breathing and oxygen flow. Anaphylaxis is a serious, life-threatening medical condition that can happen quickly and without notice. There are many different symptoms of anaphylaxis that vary from person to person. It is not uncommon for people with anaphylaxis to panic, faint and have extreme difficulty breathing. If someone has any of these symptoms after encountering something they are allergic to, it is important that immediate medical attention and first aid is provided.

Which treats anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis: How Is Anaphylaxis Treated

Anaphylaxis is commonly treated with an immediate injection of epinephrine (adrenaline) commonly carried as an EpiPen®. Paramedics/ physicians will then administer medications like antihistamines or steroids and hospitalization for oxygen therapy or other IV treatments and procedures as required specifically for each patient.

An allergic reaction will usually start within 5-15 minutes after exposure to the allergen.

Who anaphylaxis definitions

Anaphylaxis: Who Gets Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is most often triggered by an allergen, something you are allergic to that your body can’t deal with, but not always. People who are at risk for anaphylaxis include those with known allergies to certain foods like peanuts, shellfish, eggs, or cow’s milk; people who are allergic to insect stings; and people who have a history of severe reactions after exposure to drugs like penicillin or anaesthesia.

While anyone can be at risk for anaphylaxis, there are some populations that have a higher risk than others. People living with asthma have a higher risk of developing anaphylaxis because they’re already prone to breathing problems. Older adults have a higher risk because their immune systems weaken as they age. Children and teenagers are more likely to die from anaphylaxis because their bodies do not produce the necessary antibodies found in adults.

Anaphylaxis action plan

Anaphylaxis: How to Treat It:

Anaphylaxis is a type of severe, whole body allergic reaction that can happen in minutes after exposure to an allergen. The severity of anaphylaxis varies greatly among individuals and can be fatal without appropriate treatment. We created this guide and chart to help people better understand this condition and provide the correct medical assistance when needed.

 Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune system responds in a way that causes it to release large quantities of chemicals called mediators, including histamine. It is commonly triggered by allergens like peanuts or bee stings. It can also be caused by medications like antibiotics or anaesthesia drugs, exercise, latex, and other triggers. Natural chemicals in your body called Mediators cause blood vessels to swell and leak fluids into surrounding tissues, which can lead to low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, fainting, an upset stomach or diarrhoea, skin flushing/itching/hives/rash (urticaria), and even shock – which can lead to death if not treated quickly with first aid assistance.

Where can I find more information on anaphylaxis first aid

Firstaidpro.com.au has a wide range of first aid courses and charts with easy-to-follow diagrams and instructions. While you are there, check out our nationally recognised and accredited nationwide course calendars to find an option that fits into your busy lifestyle. Sign up today to update your current skills with a refresher course, or, become a nationally recognised and accredited first aid responder for the first time. You never know when life could unexpectedly extend you the chance to become someone’s life-saving hero!