Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. The reaction usually occurs after an insect sting or bite or after injection of a specific drug such as penicillin. Occasionally the reaction occurs after eating a particular food or taking a specific medication. Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical treatment.
During an anaphylactic reaction, the body releases massive amounts of histamine and other powerful chemicals in response to the presence of the allergen. The blood vessels widen, causing a sudden, severe decrease in blood pressure. Other symptoms can include hives (itchy, raised, red patches on the skin); swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat; abdominal pain; diarrhea; and difficulty breathing due to bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways in the lungs).
If you or someone you know has an anaphylactic reaction, call 911 or your local emergency number. While waiting for emergency help to arrive, have the person lie down, with face up, head low, and legs raised about a foot high to improve blood flow to the upper body. An injection of epinephrine is needed as soon as possible to counteract the allergic reaction. If you or the person has had a severe allergic reaction before and carries an injecting device that contains epinephrine, use it as soon as symptoms appear.
Posted in Immune System
