Allergic Reactions and My Experience with Anaphylaxis

Many people suffer from allergies, some more than others. People with allergies are usually sensitive to more than one thing. Simply stated, an allergic reaction occurs when a substance comes in contact with the body's immune system which mistakenly regards it as a threat.

More and more people seem to be suffering from allergies these days, and there are a few theories why. One is our exposure to new chemicals and additives. The other is our obsession with cleanliness which gives the immune system less to do. Also, as we grow older we can become more allergic.

The role of the immune system in allergies

Normally the immune system fights germs. In an allergic reaction the immune system overreacts. As the immune system starts defending the body, it produces IgE antibodies that travel to cells releasing chemicals and causing an allergic reaction. These chemicals are called histamines. Medications used to treat allergic reactions are called anti-histamines.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction

An allergic reaction can cause symptoms in the nose, eyes, ears, sinuses, throat, lungs, stomach and skin. Symptoms occur as itching, eczema, hives, hay-fever, asthma, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Severe reactions such as swelling of the throat, tongue and lungs can result in breathing difficulties and be life threatening. Life threatening reactions are called anaphylaxis.

Irritants that often cause allergic reactions

Most of my family, and I tend to be allergic. Our allergies are seasonal or environmental. Our symptoms can usually be relieved with over the counter medications such as Claritin, Benadryl or a prescription medication such as Nasonex.

Substances frequently causing allergic reactions are: pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander,insect bites, poisonous plants, food and medications. An allergic reaction can be delayed hypersensitivity, which does not show up immediately and goes away within 72 hours. These reactions are not usually serious.

Life threatening allergic reaction, anaphylaxis

The most severe and life threatening allergic reaction is termed anaphylaxis. During anaphylaxis the immune system releases histamine and other substances that combine with certain white cells in the blood and have a profound life threatening effect on the body. Unless the person suffering anaphylaxis gets help immediately he or she can die.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis

Often the first symptom of anaphylaxis is hives, medically termed uticaria. Uticaria are red itchy spots over the body. Hives alone are not serious but when accompanied by other symptoms, the allergic reaction can turn deadly.

The most dangerous symptom of anaphylaxis is trouble breathing. There may be wheezing and shortness of breath caused by the swelling of the tongue, throat or air passages.

There may be digestive symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

The last symptom is shock caused by a fall in blood pressure. Unless people experiencing anaphylaxis get immediate medical help, they will die.

Common causes of an anaphylaxis reaction

The most frequent allergens causing anaphylaxis are insect stings by bees or wasps.

Certain foods can be life threatening. Most common are peanuts, shellfish and eggs.

Medications, especially antibiotics, can cause serious trouble. Frequently, contrast dye, used in some diagnostic tests causes a reaction.

Latex, which has widespread use in hospitals and doctor's offices, is a newer form of allergen.

Not long ago I had a serious reaction to the antibiotic Cipro. About an hour after taking the Cipro, I felt dizzy and my tongue started to swell. By the time I got to the ER my tongue was so swollen, I could barely speak. Fortunately I could still breathe through my nose, but my blood pressure was falling.

I was given intravenous prednisone and Benadryl, an epinephrine shot and treated with a nebulizer. Within 30 minutes I was better, but I was very frightened when I saw a doctor with an intubation kit which is used to stick a tube down your throat to help you breathe. I was sent home with prednisone and an EpiPen injector to use if I experience another reaction.

If you have severe allergies it is important to get tested. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what you are allergic to. Carry an EpiPen and carefully avoid the allergens that cause you trouble.

Sources:

http://housecalldoctor.quickanddirtytips.com/anaphylaxis-serious-allergies.aspx

http://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/whatisallergicreaction.stm

Personal experience