Anaphylaxis – What to Watch For
The signs of anaphylaxis may occur within seconds of exposure, or be delayed 15 to 30 minutes or even an hour or more after exposure (which is most typical of reactions to aspirin and similar drugs). Early symptoms are often related to the skin and include:
- Difficulty breathing; wheezing
- Changes in consciousness (including confusion, light-headedness, or stupor)
- Rapid swelling throughout the body
- Hives
- Blue skin
- Severe abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea
- Flushing (warmth and redness of the skin)
- Itching (often in the groin or armpits)
Throat and tongue swelling, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing frequently follow the above symptoms. Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps may also develop.
If you know a child or adult with food allergies and suspect they are having an anaphylactic reaction, the most important consideration is time. Calling 911 or driving the person to the emergency room are the first things that should be done. Also, it is important to have an epinephrine auto-injector on hand for those times.
How You Can Protect Yourself or Be Ready for Potential Anaphylaxis
- Follow-up with your doctor or allergist if you or your little one had a severe reaction.
- If you’ve been prescribed self-injectable epinephrine, carry it at all times. (Here’s a great recent post on epinephrine at school)
- Educate others about your allergy. Teach them what you need to avoid, the symptoms of an allergic reaction, and how they can help during an allergic emergency. (Check out this post I did on being a PAL to a person with food allergies.)
- Teach yourself and others how to use an epinephrine auto-injector. Practice until it becomes second nature.
- Wear medical identification jewelry noting your allergy.
Have you or your little ones ever had an anaphylactic reaction? If so, what have you done to help minimize the risk of such a reaction?
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