An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, known as an allergen. The immune system produces antibodies, triggering chemicals like histamine and leading to various symptoms. While this response aims to protect, it can cause uncomfortable or dangerous effects. Knowing how to respond to an allergic reaction is essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Recognizing an Allergic Reaction
Identifying the signs of an allergic reaction is the first step toward effective management. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions, and they often appear rapidly, within minutes of exposure to an allergen. Mild reactions might involve skin issues like hives, itching, or rashes, or a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, or watery eyes. Mild gastrointestinal issues like stomach upset can also occur.
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, affects multiple body systems and needs immediate attention. Signs of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, such as wheezing, noisy breathing, or a persistent cough. Swelling of the tongue, throat, or lips, along with tightness in the throat or difficulty swallowing, are serious signs. Other symptoms include a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness, fainting, or a weak, rapid pulse. Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, or a general sense of impending doom signal a severe reaction.
Immediate Steps for Mild Reactions
When a mild allergic reaction occurs, prompt action can help alleviate symptoms and prevent them from worsening. The initial step involves removing the allergen if possible. For instance, if skin contact caused a rash, washing the affected area can be beneficial. Administering an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine is recommended for mild symptoms.
Antihistamines work by blocking histamine, a chemical involved in allergic responses. Common OTC options include cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra), which cause less drowsiness than older ones like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Always follow the dosing instructions on the product label. For skin reactions like hives or rashes, applying a cold compress can help reduce itching and swelling. Close monitoring of the individual is important to ensure symptoms do not escalate.
Emergency Response for Severe Reactions
A severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. The first step is to administer an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen or Auvi-Q, if one is available. Epinephrine is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis, and its prompt use can be life-saving.
To use an epinephrine auto-injector, remove the safety cap, then press the device firmly against the outer mid-thigh. It can be injected through clothing. Hold it in place for three to ten seconds, then remove it and massage the injection site for ten seconds. Immediately after administering epinephrine, call emergency services (such as 911 in the U.S. or 000 in Australia) and state it’s anaphylaxis.
While waiting for medical help, lay the person flat with their legs elevated to help maintain blood flow. If the person is vomiting or experiencing breathing difficulties, help them sit up or turn them onto their side to prevent choking. Remain with the person until emergency responders arrive, and if symptoms do not improve after five minutes, a second dose of epinephrine can be given if available. Even if symptoms improve after epinephrine, it is important to seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room, as symptoms can re-emerge hours later in a biphasic reaction.
After the Acute Reaction
Even after the immediate danger of an allergic reaction has passed, continued medical attention is important. Following a mild reaction, it is advisable to seek medical advice to identify the allergen and discuss future management. After a severe reaction, or anaphylaxis, follow-up care is important, even if epinephrine was administered and symptoms subsided. Medical professionals will want to monitor for a potential biphasic reaction.
Consulting an allergist is an important next step, especially if the cause of the reaction is unknown. An allergist can perform specialized tests to identify specific triggers, such as certain foods, insect venoms, or medications. Once the allergen is identified, the allergist can help develop a comprehensive management plan. This plan includes strategies for allergen avoidance, instructions on how and when to use prescribed medications, and a personalized emergency action plan. It is also important to ensure that prescribed medications, particularly epinephrine auto-injectors, are always carried and readily accessible.