Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction which comes on quickly and can be fatal. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. If anyone is experiencing anaphylaxis, you need to administer epinephrine right away and then call the emergency number or 911 for further treatment and transfer to the hospital.

What causes anaphylaxis ?

It occurs when the immune system reacts to harmless substance such as allergens. These include

Foods such as

• peanuts
• milk
• eggs
• shellfish such as shrimp
• nuts from trees such as walnuts
• fish such as tuna and salmon

Medications such as

• antibiotics
• anti seizure medications

Any medication even aspirin can cause this reaction .

Insects stings such as

• wasps
• hornets
• bees
• fire ants
• yellow jackets

What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis ?

Symptoms of anaphylaxis happen quickly and vary greatly. The most severe symptoms are restriction in breathing and circulation.

The most common symptoms include the following :

• nose :  wheezing, stuffy nose , runny nose
• skin : hives, itching, swelling , redness
• throat : hoarseness, difficulty swallowing ,tightness , itching
• mouth :swelling of lips or  tongue, itching
• heart : weak pulse, passing out , shock
• chest : cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, tightness
• stomach : vomiting, nausea, cramps
• neurologic :fainting, dizziness,

What is epinephrine ?

Epinephrine is the main medicine used to treat anaphylaxis. It is given by injection and the best place to give it is in the muscle of the upper part of the thigh. If symptoms do not get better , the injection should be given again in 5 to 30 minutes.

Older children should be taught   on how to give themselves epinephrine when needed. This medicine comes  in auto-injector syringes (EpiPen or Auvi-Q) to make it easier to use. Epinephrine should be prescribed to anyone who has had an anaphylactic reaction or anyone who is at risk of this condition.

They are available in 2 different doses based on the weight of your child. You should have at least 2 doses with you all the time. Children of school going age also need one at school with instructions from their doctor about how and when to use it.
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