Anaphylaxis

Diagnosis

Your doctor may inquire about past allergy responses, such as whether you have reacted to insect bites or stings, latex, foods, and medications.

In order to support the diagnosis:

• A blood test may be performed on you to check the level of an enzyme called tryptase, which can increase up to three hours after anaphylaxis.
• Skin testing or blood tests may be used to check for allergies and help identify your trigger.

Many disorders have signs and symptoms that resemble anaphylaxis. Your doctor may need to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may be necessary if you stop breathing or your heart stops beating during an allergic episode. Additionally, you might be given drugs, such as:

• Epinephrine to decrease allergic response of the body
• Oxygen, to assist with breathing
• Intravenous antihistamines and cortisone to decreased airway swelling and help breath properly
• A beta-agonist to address breathing problems

Emergency response

Act quickly if the person you’re with is suffering an allergic reaction and exhibiting signs of shock. A pale and cool skin; weak, quick pulse; difficulty breathing; confusion, and loss of consciousness are all things to watch out for. Get the following done right away:

• Call for emergency medical assistance.
• If an epinephrine autoinjector is available, use it to inject the drug into the patient’s thigh.
• Verify that the person is lying down, and lift the legs.
• Check the person’s respiration and pulse, and if required, do CPR or other first aid procedures.

Autoinjector usage

Individuals prone to anaphylaxis often carry an autoinjector—a compact device that combines a syringe and a concealed needle. By pressing it against the thigh, the autoinjector administers a single dose of medication. Epinephrine should be replaced before it expires to ensure proper function.

An autoinjector can prevent anaphylaxis from escalating and even save your life. Make sure you are familiar with using the autoinjector. Additionally, ensure that those closest to you are familiar with its use.

Long-term treatment

A series of allergy shots (immunotherapy), if insect stings cause an anaphylactic reaction, may lessen the body’s allergic response and avoid a severe reaction in the future.

Unfortunately, the underlying immune system disorder that can cause anaphylaxis cannot usually be treated. However, you may take precautions to avoid a future attack and be ready if one happens.

• Attempt to avoid the things that cause your allergies.
• Keep self-injectable epinephrine on hand. You can administer the medication to yourself with an autoinjector during an anaphylactic reaction.