Anaphylaxis Specialist

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening reaction that can occur when you’re exposed to a certain allergen. While many people have mild-to-moderate allergic reactions, anaphylaxis causes an excess release of chemicals that can put you into shock, making it difficult to breathe and causing the loss of consciousness. Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency.

For many patients, anaphylaxis is triggered when they’re exposed to specific allergens like:

• Latex
• Insect stings
• Certain foods

Medications can also cause an anaphylaxis reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?

For some, anaphylactic symptoms develop immediately after exposure to certain allergens. The earliest symptoms may include:

• Hives
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Trouble breathing

As symptoms worsen, you can experience intense abdominal pain, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and a rapid heartbeat. Some people may have panic symptoms or quickly lose consciousness.

Without immediate medical treatment, anaphylaxis can be fatal.

What treatments are available for anaphylaxis?

People who have experienced severe anaphylactic reactions to a certain allergen need to create an emergency treatment plan. Dr. Marks-Cogan works closely with you to confirm the cause of your severe allergic reaction by performing skin or blood tests. When your specific allergens have been identified, they provide guidance to ensure you avoid your triggers.

Dr. Marks-Cogan can also prescribe an injectable epinephrine to be used in an emergency that quickly reduces symptoms, like the swelling in your throat that disrupts breathing. You need to carry this medication with you at all times in case of an unexpected exposure to your allergen that results in anaphylaxis.

If you’re prone to anaphylactic reactions, it’s important that you teach your family and friends what to do if you lose consciousness during an allergic reaction: Administer your epinephrine autoinjector and call 9-1-1 for medical help.

Even if you regain consciousness and your symptoms start to lessen, a second anaphylactic reaction can occur within 12 hours of the initial start of your symptoms. For this reason, you can expect to stay in the hospital for a period of observation.

If you’re looking for comprehensive care to help prevent anaphylactic reactions, schedule a consultation at Clear Allergy today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.