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Anaphylaxis Symptoms and Treatment Options
At Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center, we help patients at risk of anaphylaxis due to their allergies. Anaphylaxis is primarily characterized by a rapid onset of life-threatening symptoms. And with many types of allergies potentially causing a severe reaction, it’s vital that adults or children who are experiencing symptoms receive guidance from an allergist. Our doctors work with Atlanta-area patients to alleviate severe allergy symptoms and the threat of anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis – What You Need to Know
Anaphylaxis is an extreme reaction to contact with an allergen. Within minutes or even seconds of exposure to an allergic trigger, an individual can experience an intense and life-threatening reaction.
Anaphylaxis occurs when your body comes into contact with a substance that leads to the release of antibodies. The extreme response is an overreaction to the antibodies, with your body incorrectly perceiving a threat. Common allergies that lead to anaphylaxis in Atlanta patients include peanuts, shellfish, milk, insect stings and medications.
Effective Treatment for Anaphylaxis
If a person is experiencing anaphylactic shock, it’s important to respond quickly.
- Call 911 for medical assistance.
- Press their epinephrine auto-injector into a thigh.
- Place the person on their back and raise their feet off the ground.
- Use CPR if they have stopped breathing.
If you or your child experienced a first-time anaphylactic reaction, our doctors can develop a treatment plan to identify exactly what is causing this allergic response.
- Conduct allergy tests to determine the source of the reaction.
- Use avoidance to minimize contact with any allergens.
- Provide an epinephrine auto-injector for emergencies.
- Discuss alternative treatments like oral immunotherapy, allergy shots, rush immunotherapy.
Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
The onset of anaphylaxis can be sudden, and the condition can quickly get worse. There are common anaphylaxis symptoms that many people experience.
- Breathing issues
- Wheezing
- Increased heart rate
- Lightheaded feeling
- Confusion
- Hives
- Clammy skin
With severe anaphylaxis there may be a rapid deterioration in your condition. A quick response is the best way to counter a serious allergic reaction. If you cannot avoid exposure to your allergy trigger, recognizing the symptoms and carrying your medication offers security.
Common Questions About Anaphylaxis
Is there a cure for anaphylaxis?
There is no single cure for the allergies that cause anaphylaxis. However, there are effective treatments that can drastically reduce the risks. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) helps many allergy sufferers desensitize their immune systems to allergens. With this treatment, tolerance levels are gradually increased until the allergy triggers don’t produce a reaction.
How do I know if I am at risk for anaphylaxis?
You are most at risk if you have asthma, experience severe allergic reactions to any substance, have previously experienced anaphylaxis and/or suffer from heart disease.
What are the most common food allergies causing anaphylaxis?
The most common problem foods include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy and shellfish. If you are allergic to any of these foods, practicing avoidance is advised.
Don’t Delay Treating the Triggers of Anaphylaxis
Do you have concerns about allergies and the threat of anaphylaxis? Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center is here to help you or your child avoid any serious allergic reactions. Make an appointment at our allergy treatment centers located in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call us at 678-668-4688 to get help today.