WHAT IS ANAPHYLAXIS?
Anaphylaxis (also known as anaphylactic shock or an anaphylactic reaction) is the most severe form and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment and urgent medical attention. The reaction can occur within seconds, minutes or hours after exposure to an allergen, such as those found in foods, insects or medicines, etc.
If you experience or are in the presence of someone who encounters a serious reaction (this may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, throat tightening, swelling, collapse, etc), follow their action plan or emergency instructions and call or have someone call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
If you are unsure what to do, call Triple Zero (000).
SYMPTOMS
They may be characterised by:
- Difficult/noisy breathing
- Swelling of the tongue
- Swelling or Tightness in the throat
- Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
- Paleness and floppiness (in small children)
- Wheeze or persistent cough
- Persistent dizziness and/or collapse
- Abdominal pain (Insect Allergy)
- Vomiting (Insect Allergy)
The validity and severity of these symptoms are dependent on the individual and the level of exposure, as determined by a qualified health care provider.
If you or someone you know is suspected of having an allergy, it’s important to discuss diagnosis, symptoms and treatment with a qualified health care provider to understand how to manage individual allergies and also to set up an Allergy Action Plan in the case of a reaction. This will also ensure that the at-risk individual carries all their necessary and prescribed emergency medication and visual allergy alerts so they are prepared and ready at all times in the case of a reaction.
TREATMENT
Adrenaline (Epinephrine) is the first-line treatment for Anaphylaxis. After administering Adrenaline (Epinephrine), seek emergency medical attention by calling Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.
Remember to follow your or at-risks persons action plan or emergency instructions and call or have someone call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Not all allergic reactions result in anaphylaxis, however understanding the risk factors and symptoms is critical to set up informed management strategies.
Always present your Allergy Card, Medical Alert Bracelet or Necklace to ensure health care providers, family members, friends, colleagues and others are aware of your Allergy or Allergies.
AUSTRALIA
20 percent of Australians have allergies. This figure includes allergies to foods, drugs, insects, venoms, ticks, environmental allergens such as pollen and grasses, latex, etc.
The Common Triggers:
Food- A food allergy is an immune system response to a food protein that the body believes is harmful, triggering an immune system response.
There are currently more than 170 foods known to have triggered severe allergic reactions, however there are 10 foods that are the most common food allergies in Australia.
These 10 most common foods are: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame seeds, finned fish, shellfish, wheat, soy and lupin. However, keep in mind any food substance can trigger anaphylaxis based on individual circumstances.
Food Standards Code (External Link) requires suppliers to declare these foods on labels whenever they are present.
Allergic reactions can happen with either whole amounts consumed or even through consuming a trace of the substance, smelling the substance or touching the substance. As with all allergies, speaking to qualified health care provider will provide diagnosis and advice on treatment and management based on individuals circumstances.
Medication- Medications both over-the-counter, prescription and alternative medicines, can cause an anaphylactic reaction.
Bites and Stings- Anaphylaxis to bites and stings are most common from bees, wasps and ant bites.
But that's not all- Anaphylaxis can happen from everyday activities and items that you can react to (or be triggered by), that include allergens such as Parabens, Latex, Pet Dander and more.
FINAL WORD
Seeking means to reduce your risks, for example- advocating for your allergies with your Visual Allergy Alert, working with your healthcare providers on your diagnosis and treatments, carrying an allergy action plan with you at all times, and being with your Pallergy, are just some ways you can reduce your risks and live a a safer and happier allergy life.
And whatever your reason for reading this insight, whether it is for you or a loved one, it's important to consult a qualified healthcare provider for more information on allergic reactions, triggers, diagnosis, examination, treatment and management strategies.
