Would You Know the Symptoms of Life-Threatening Anaphylaxis?

Many of the deaths in the U.S. each year due to anaphylaxis, a sudden, serious allergic reaction, could be prevented if more people knew the symptoms and the immediate treatment needed to survive. 

To increase awareness of anaphylaxis, South Bay Allergy and Asthma have joined the national Anaphylaxis Community Experts (ACEs) educational program to present community awareness programs to schools, hospital grand rounds, PTA meetings, medical offices, Scouting organizations, EMS, fire and police departments, and more.

The first line of treatment is early administration of epinephrine. Most fatalities from anaphylaxis occur outside the home, especially when treatment is delayed.  Our goal is to show parents, teachers, school nurses, emergency responders and others how to recognize and respond to anaphylaxis symptoms the moment they begin.

Anaphylaxis is a rapid-onset, whole-body, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen to anyone at any time, but is more commonly experienced among people with risk factors. There are three major risk factors for fatal anaphylaxis:

·         -Allergic reaction to food, stinging insects or medications

·         - Presence or history of asthma symptoms

·         -Delay in administration of epinephrine

The affected person may experience cardiovascular shock and/or serious respiratory compromise.

What causes the allergic reaction? The answer may not be what you think. See an allergist. Get a strategy and reduce anxieties associated with anaphylaxis.  Forty-seven states protect students’ rights to carry and use auto-injectable epinephrine. We’ve created resources to help them and families coordinate students’ needs.

Every child at risk should have an anaphylaxis action plan on file with all schools and caregivers.  The plan should list symptoms and state that immediate action can be life-saving and outline what to do in order of importance.

For more information on the symptoms and treatment of anaphylaxis or to request an ACE awareness presentation for your group, contact our allergy nurse, Anna, at 310-371-1388 ext. 15.

The ACE program is a partnership of Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA) and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), supported by Dey Pharma, L.P.