Anaphylactic Shock

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Anaphylactic shock is a severe and violent allergic response that may occur as a result of contact with an allergen. Possible allergens include chemicals, medicines, vaccines, particular foods or food additives-such as sulfites and insect venom. Anaphylactic shock may cause severe breathing distress and can be life-threatening.

In anaphylactic shock, the body's reaction to an allergen can cause a swelling of the air passages, with a consequent narrowing of the airway, resulting in extreme difficulty in breathing. In rare instances, the tongue and air passages may swell to the point where the airway closes and breathing becomes almost impossible.

Symptoms usually come on rapidly, most often with in one to fifteen minutes of contact with an allergen. The more quickly a reaction begins, the more severe it is likely to be. The first signs of a reaction can include a sense of uneasiness, agitation, weakness, sweating, flushing, and shortness of breath, accompanied by intense fear and anxiety. Another early sign may be the presence of itchy hives that begin to spread rapidly all over the body. Other symptoms may include restlessness, falling blood pressure, shock, uneven heartbeat, wheezing, trouble swallowing, nausea, and diarrhea.

This kind of an allergic reaction is frightening. But don't panic. As you seek help, try to remain as calm as possible. An agitated state makes breathing even more difficult. It is important to reassure yourself that the situation will be resolved.

General recommendation for anaphylactic shock

Preventive measures for anaphylactic shock

Unfortunately, there is often no way to know ahead of time that you may be allergic to a particular substance. Should you ever suffer a dangerous allergic reaction, however, it goes without saying that you should guard against any future contact with the allergen.

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