Anaphylactic shock

Anaphylactic shock, or anaphylaxis, is an allergic reaction, immediate hypersensitivity and severe, affecting the whole body. In its most severe manifestation is when causes swelling and obstruction of the upper airways and / or hypotension, which can be fatal.

The lack of air can be fatal unless the subject receives the emergency treatment promptly.

Treatment

The initial treatment for anaphylactic shock is an intravenous injection of adrenaline 0.3 to 0.5mg, which can be repeated 3 to 5 minutes acada and supplying oxygen to the subject through a mask.

If the throat is closed and prevent the passage of air, it is necessary to perform a cricothyrotomy, which is a surgical procedure to maintain respiration, brain oxygenation and integrity until the situation is normalized. After resolution of signs and symptoms is important to observe the patient for 4-6 hours. Already in severe and refractory cases, it is important to observe 10-24 hours.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic shock can be:

• Difficulty in breathing

• Sweating

• Pale skin and cold

• Rapid pulse

• Wheezing when breathing

• Itching

• Redness of the body

• Confusion

• Unconsciousness

• vascular collapse

• Incontinence

• Vomiting

• Abdominal pain

First aid for anaphylactic shock

In case of a suspected anaphylactic shock, it is recommended to call an ambulance ASAP.

While waiting, try to understand what caused the allergic reaction. If it was an insect bite or snake, for example, remove the sting of the animal skin and apply a pebble ice in place, tie strength with a clean cloth a few inches above the biting animal, to decrease the spread of venom.

Some allergic patients often have an anti-allergic (Epinephrine) in your pocket or wallet, and ask him, if necessary, take the medication as soon as possible.

Causes

Some possible causes of anaphylaxis are medications, insect venom, and certain foods that cause allergy on the individual as the egg, for example.

Because anaphylactic shock occurs

Anaphylactic shock occurs when an individual comes in contact with an agent (antigen) that excite others the immune system, allowing it an overreaction, called the hypersensitive reaction of your body producing the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis after a short period exposure to allergen.