Embedded Files
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening event and is an emergency which requires quick assessment and treatment.
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction.
The body thinks it detects something harmful and responds by producing things which fight this. However, the things produced can be harmful themselves when produced in large quantities. This causes the body to show a number of signs that it is in trouble.
The World Allergy Organization Anaphylaxis Committee defines anaphylaxis as:
A serious systemic hypersensitivity reaction that is usually rapid in onset and may cause death. Severe anaphylaxis is characterised by potentially life-threatening compromise in airway, breathing and/or the circulation, and may occur without typical skin features or circulatory shock being present
Anaphylaxis is often caused due to a known allergen, but not always.
The potential for 'new' triggers may be higher in children.
Common anaphylaxis triggers include:
foods
medicines
insect stings
contrast agents
latex
In some cases, there's no obvious trigger. This is known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse