Anaphylactic shock: drugs, symptoms, causes, etc. & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is anaphylactic shock?

Anaphylactic shock is an allergic reaction that can cause loss of consciousness or even death. This condition occurs when the patient is allergic to food, drugs, insect venom, and latex. This reaction can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to the allergic agent, during which the patient's blood pressure drops suddenly and the airways become obstructed and interfere with breathing.

Signs and symptoms of anaphylactics include a fast and weak heart rate, skin rash, nausea and vomiting.

Patients with anaphylactic shock should be taken to the emergency department immediately and receive an injection of epinephrine.

How common is anaphylactic shock?

Anaphylactic shock is quite common, occurring in up to 2% of the population. This condition can occur in patients of any age. Anaphylactic shock can be treated by reducing risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock?

Common symptoms of anaphylactic shock are:

Skin reactions, such as hives, red or pale skin
Warm feeling
Sensation of a lump in the throat
Difficulty breathing
Weak and fast heartbeat
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Dizziness or fainting

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You need to seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience a serious allergic reaction such as those listed above. Even if the symptoms improve after using the epinephrine injection, the patient needs to be taken to the emergency department immediately to make sure the symptoms don't return.

Arrange an appointment with your doctor if you have had a serious allergy attack or signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock in the past.

Cause

What causes anaphylactic shock?

There are many major allergic agents that can trigger anaphylactic shock, such as:

Certain drugs, especially penicillin
Foods, such as nuts, wheat (in children), fish, shellfish, milk and eggs
Insect stings from bees, wasps, hornets, or fire ants

Less common causes of anaphylactic shock include:

Latex
Medicines: aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, contrast fluid used in some X-rays
Exercise: aerobic activity, eating before exercise, exercising when it is hot, cold or humid

Risk factors

What increases my risk for anaphylactic shock?

There are many risk factors for anaphylactic shock, including:

Previous history of anaphylactic shock
Allergies or asthma
Family history

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is anaphylactic shock diagnosed?

Anaphylactic shock is diagnosed with questions regarding:

History of food consumed
Medicines consumed
History of allergies in which your skin was exposed to latex
Stings from certain types of insects

The doctor may also order skin tests or blood tests to diagnose allergies. You will need to keep a complete list of what you are taking to help your doctor identify the cause of your condition.

Tests can also be done to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. Some of the conditions that have similar symptoms to anaphylactic shock are:

Tests for seizure abnormalities
Conditions other than allergies that cause redness or other skin symptoms
Mastocytosis, an immune system disorder
Psychological issues, such as panic attacks
Heart or lung problems.

How to treat anaphylactic shock?

Medicines can be given in an emergency, such as:

Epinephrine (adrenaline): reduces the body's allergic response
Oxygen: helps with breathing
Anti-histamine and cortisone injected intravenously: reduces airway inflammation and improves breathing
Beta-agonists (for example albuterol): relieve respiratory symptoms