$Unique_ID{BRK01123}
$Pretitle{Accidents, Poisoning, and Violence}
$Title{What Should be Done for Sudden Severe Allergic Shock?}
$Subject{shock allergy anaphylaxis first aid}
$Volume{O}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Should be Done for Sudden Severe Allergic Shock?


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QUESTION:  We almost lost our neighbor due to a sudden and severe allergic
shock.  We think it was from a bee sting, but no one knows for certain.  Would
you please explain what happened, and what should be done for this emergency?

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ANSWER:  You're referring to anaphylactic shock.  It is a very severe form of
allergic reaction, and it results from being exposed to an allergen that you
are extremely allergic to.  Some people are very sensitive to certain foods
(shellfish is a common one), drugs or to bee stings, as you mention.  In fact,
fatal anaphylactic reactions to penicillin are estimated at one fatality per
100,000 injections.  Seventy-five percent of all fatal anaphylactic reactions
are the result of penicillin.  However, anaphylactic shock can result from
exposure to almost any allergen, and can occur without warning, when no
problem has been experienced with that product before.
     You asked what happens in anaphylactic shock.  The symptoms may vary
some, but they often involve itching, a tightness in the throat, wheezing,
abdominal pain and diarrhea.  Collapse of the vascular system is an ominous
sign, and it often occurs in fatal anaphylactic shock.  The first symptoms may
include a generalized flushed, light-headed feeling, and usually occur in 20
to 30 minutes after exposure.  Treatment depends on the severity of the
reaction; if life-threatening symptoms are present, immediate treatment with
epinephrine (adrenalin) and CPR may be necessary.
     The very best treatment for anaphylaxis is avoiding known allergens.
Recently, some new causes of anaphylaxis have been identified, and more
information is being gathered on these causes.  Even exercise has been
implicated in some cases of anaphylactic shock.  It occurs with prolonged,
strenuous exercise, starts about 30 minutes after beginning exercise, and can
produce intense itching, blotches on the skin, respiratory tract obstruction
and choking sensations.  Other recently identified anaphylaxis producers are
food preservatives, aspirin, steroids, dialysis, various vaccines and human
semen.
     If you know you have an allergy, avoid the product that causes you
problems.  Repeated exposures can create more and more risk for severe
reactions.  Know what you are allergic to and how you are likely to come into
contact with it.  Seek the help of a physician who specializes in allergy
diagnosis and treatment; recent advances in allergy diagnosis may identify
your allergens with accuracy and convenience that has not been possible
before.  Notify all health care providers of your allergies, and talk with
family members and co-workers about what to do in an allergy emergency.  Wear
an identifying necklace or bracelet if you are prone to allergy problems.
     Persons who have suffered anaphylaxis sometimes carry emergency kits
containing epinephrine.  If you and your doctor feel this is a good idea for
you, learn to use the injection, and teach those around you to use it.  Keep
in mind, however, that epinephrine is a powerful drug that can cause serious
side effects if it is used unnecessarily, so use it wisely.  Learn to
recognize the early signs of an allergic reaction, and get treatment promptly
before the situation becomes an unmanageable emergency.
     Allergies can develop at any time, even to foods, drugs and products
you've never had a problem with.  So know the symptoms of allergic reaction
and be prepared to take the right actions if they occur.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
