Oct. 26, 2023 | The recent death of celebrity chef and Food Network star Michael Chiarello has drawn attention to a serious problem, anaphylaxis, a severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen seconds or minutes after you’ve been exposed to something you’re allergic to. More than 100 million people in the United States are allergic to something, whether it’s an insect, food or drug, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Allergies are one of the most common chronic diseases. An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system sees a substance as harmful and overreacts to it. The substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens. When someone has allergies, their immune system makes an antibody called immunoglobulin E. These antibodies respond to allergens. The symptoms that result are an allergic reaction. In some cases, anaphylaxis can occur, a serious reaction that requires immediate treatment.

Oct. 26, 2023 | Anaphylaxis is a severe, whole-body allergic reaction to a chemical that has become an allergen. Unfortunately, many people may not realize they have an allergy until they experience anaphylaxis. After being exposed to a substance such as bee sting venom, the immune system becomes sensitized to it. When the person is exposed to that allergen again, an allergic reaction may occur. Anaphylaxis happens quickly after the exposure. Some drugs, like morphine, may cause an anaphylactic-like reaction when people are first exposed to them. Anaphylactoid reactions are not the same as the immune system response that occurs with true anaphylaxis. But, the symptoms, risk of complications and treatment are the same for both types of reactions. Anaphylaxis can occur in response to any allergen although pollen and other inhaled allergens rarely cause it. Some people have an anaphylactic reaction with no known cause.

Oct. 26, 2023 | Watery eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and possibly a rash are among the most common symptoms of an allergy. They can often be treated with an over-the-counter medication but when it comes to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, it’s not so easy. The symptoms of anaphylaxis can include wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. It can cause dizziness, shock and a general feeling of impending doom. Hives, nausea and a headache may also occur. The symptoms usually appear within minutes to a few hours after eating a food, swallowing a drug or being stung by an insect. The most dangerous symptoms are low blood pressure, difficulty in breathing and loss of consciousness, all of which can be fatal. If you have any of these symptoms, particularly after eating, taking a medication or being stung by an insect, please seek medical care immediately or call 911. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms go away or get better on their own.

Oct. 26, 2023 | Certain medications, foods and stinging insects can all lead to the severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Some products made from natural latex contain allergens that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The greatest danger of severe reactions occurs when latex comes into contact with moist areas of the body or internal surfaces during surgery. If you begin to have a severe reaction, use your autoinjectable epinephrine and get to the closest emergency room. The sooner the reaction is treated, the less severe it is likely to become. Even if you’ve taken your medication and are feeling better, go to the hospital to make sure your reaction is under control. Once you’ve had an anaphylactic reaction, visit an allergist to get a proper diagnosis. The allergist will take your medical history and conduct other tests to determine the exact cause of your reaction. Your allergist can provide information about avoiding the allergen as well as a treatment plan.

Oct. 26, 2023 | Most people live a normal, full life after suffering from the allergic reaction anaphylaxis. Once you’ve had anaphylaxis, you need to be prepared for the possibility that you will have it again in the future. Talk to your doctor about how to minimize your risk in the future. In some cases, an allergist may suggest specific treatments, such as allergy shots to virtually eliminate the risk of anaphylaxis from insect stings, or procedures that make it possible to be treated with certain medications to which you are allergic. Your allergist may also prescribe autoinjectable epinephrine. If so, be sure you understand how and when to use it. Always refill the prescription upon expiration. This medication should be carried with you at all times. Your allergist may also want you to wear special jewelry that identifies you as having a severe allergy. This ID can provide physicians and others with important information about your medical condition.