anaphylactic shock
Anaphylactic Shock (Anaphylaxis)
Anaphylactic shock is a serious allergic reaction caused by the injection of a substance. Anaphylactic shock affects the whole body.
Symptoms - Symptoms may include the sudden onset of difficult breathing, intense coughing or sneezing, tightness in chest, tingling sensation around mouth, swelling in the face, pale or blue skin, anxiety, skin rash with intense itch, a drop in blood pressure, dizziness, and a racing and pounding heart rate. If left untreated, unconsciousness, cardiac arrest, or death may occur.
Anaphylaxis - A similar condition in which symptoms are usually less severe and have a slower onset.
Cause - Anaphylactic shock may result in any person who is hypersensitive to a substance. Common allergic substances include medications (i.e. penicillin), bee stings or insect bites, vaccines, and occasionally, foods such as eggs, nuts, seafood, or fruits.
Diagnosis - Observation of the aforementioned symptoms will require immediate emergency medical attention. The medical evaluation will include a physical examination, testing of the pulse and blood pressure, auscultation (listening through a stethoscope), and blood tests.
Treatment - A person who is sensitive to allergens should carry an anaphylactic kit, especially when outdoors where bee stings and insect bites may occur. Talk to a pharmacist or physician to obtain a kit. Emergency treatment will involve vasopressor agents (i.e. epinephrine, corticosteroids). Lifesaving measures such as CPR may have to be taken if medical personnel are not able to reach the victim quickly. The person will need intravenous fluids and possibly medication to aid the heart function and circulation. Antihistamines may also be given.
