Anaphylaxis

Question: Anaphylaxis? I had an anaphylactic reaction a few years ago and was wondering what others who had a severe allergic reaction experienced? What did you react to? How long did it take after consuming/coming in contact with your reactor for reaction? and most importantly, have you had a second anaphylactic reaction to a different source after your first? I've been interested anaphylaxis ever since my reaction a few years ago. Coming that close to death really changed my life. I'm just curious about other's experiences. I don't need to know what anaphylaxis is...as I experienced it first hand. I was wondering about personal experiences.

Answer: I had it a few years ago. The itching began in my palms, then in the soles of my feet, then the roof of my mouth. Then my lips swelled and eyeballs itch. After that I passed out. It all happened in a few minutes. It was after eating nuts.

Question: How does anaphylaxis shock work? Is there a warning the first time you are stung? Reading about wasps I was just wondering. I have a toddler, and it makes me think about anaphylaxis. If you are deathly allergic to something is it deadly the first time, or does it start off with a warning and get progressively worse?

Answer: If a person has a severe enough allergy to a substance (insect sting, food allergy, etc.) then it does NOT present the first time they are exposed to that allergen. The first time someone is exposed to an allergen, their body merely begins to build up the antibodies to that foreign substance. This can cause some allergic symptoms--such as hives, itching, or minor swelling--or may have no symptoms at all, but WILL NOT result in anaphylaxis until the second time that person is exposed. Upon the second exposure, the body recognizes the substance, and then and only then begins the extreme, all-body histamine reaction which results in anaphylactic shock. After that, anaphylaxis will occur every exposure thereafter (except for cases of pseudoanaphylaxis, but that is a rare occurrence which usually only come as a result to certain intravenous medications). Insect stings especially will often cause anaphylaxis as opposed to a less-severe allergic reaction, so if you toddler showed any signs of allergy upon being stung the first time, it might be a good idea to look into the matter, because it could be the warning reaction which occurs with a first-time exposure, and may be followed by a dangerous reaction if they are ever stung again. (with wasp stings, however, it is also possible that the toxins of the stinger could mimic the inflammation and redness of a possible warning-reaction, but it might still be a good idea to make certain there is no allergy if you are at all in doubt.)

Question: What IS anaphylaxis? How do you know if an allergic reaction is anaphylaxis? What IS anaphylaxis? Like if I ate smth, and got a rash and my skin starts to flush and there's nausea or vomiting, is that still considered some form of anaphylaxis? Or does it have to be so severe that it involves death or hospitalization for it to be considered anaphylaxis? Thanks.

Answer: Addicted - Anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock, is an allergic reaction that can be fatal within minutes, either through swelling that shuts off airways or through a dramatic drop in blood pressure. Anaphylaxis occurs in individuals when they are exposed to an allergen to which they are allergic. An allergen is almost always a protein that is treated by the immune system as a foreign substance. Contact with, or ingestion of this allergen will set off a chain reaction in a person's immune system that may lead to swelling of the airways, loss of blood pressure, and loss of consciousness, resulting in anaphylactic shock. The most distinctive symptoms of anaphylaxis include: Hives Swelling of the throat, lips, tongue, or around the eyes Difficulty breathing or swallowing Other common symptoms of anaphylaxis may include: Metallic taste or itching in the mouth Generalized flushing, itching, or redness of the skin Abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Increased heart rate Sudden decrease in blood pressure (and accompanying paleness) Sudden feeling of weakness Anxiety or an overwhelming sense of doom Collapse Loss of consciousness Thus, what you descrive is a sensitivity and/or allergic reaction but NOT severe to be called anaphylaxis. However, it could be next time you are exposed to the same cause. Talk it over with your doctor, taking careful record of what you ate before getting the reaction.

Question: Is there a difference between anaphylaxis and an allergic reaction? Just curious - are all reactions actually anaphylaxis of varying degrees or is there a substantial difference between the two? Can you just get anaphylaxis even if you've never had it before and you have no known allergies? or it something that comes on slowly over time so you are aware little by little - sorry two questions in one here x

Answer: Anaphylaxis is a type of allergic reaction, but all allergic reactions are not anaphylactic. Hives are an allergic reaction, or redness, or swelling, or just itching. Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction where you lips, tounge, and airway swell... which can make it impossible to breathe.

Question: How common is idiopathic Anaphylaxis? I've suffered from unknown allergies for over 13 years now. I suffer to varying degrees of anaphylaxis everyday and keep it in check with antihistimines, (not the non-drowsy kind). Carry an epipen as well. I find it difficult to find other people such as myself, that suffer like this, except my grandmother. Thanks for any feedback....maybe we can learn from each other.

Answer: just a question can you get different stages of anaphlyaxis? as in mild to really bad? As i think i suffer from something along the lines as i have lots of allergies to metals, and other unknown substances...i also have asthma...my doctor hasnt did much as i have lots of problems with my doctor as he doent listen. Just wondering you you could help. my email [email protected] Thank you ...xx

Question: Can you get a second anaphylaxis attack in your sleep? Sorry it's quite a morbid question. I've had one attack and took an adrenaline but nothing else because it doesn't seem to bad. However, I'm shattered! But are too afraid to go to sleep incase I have another one.

Answer: if you had to use your epipen, then you should have immediately called 911. you never know if one epipen is going to be enough to cover you. and an ambulance is loaded with all sorts of medicines to provide you with immediate treatment. in the same light, you should never be with just one epipen. you need to have one on you at all times, one in your car, one in the home, at work, at school, etc. you never want to be without at least two epipens as they can misfire or not be enough of a dose to cover you...not to mention, when you need one youre terrified and subject to screw the first one up! also, you wont be afraid for your life once your medically cleared! you really should call your MD or a RN or your insurance company to find out where you need to go from here. best wishes to you and live smart.

Question: Allergy test said moderate, but I went into anaphylaxis? How can I get rid of this allergy? My allergy test came back as moderate, but upon eating 1 shrimp I went into anaphylactic shock where i couldnt breathe, was dizzy, vomited, diarrhea, swollen lips, swollen cheeks, swollen tongue. Additionally, i went into a restaurant to pick up food for my husband and broke out in hives. I am wondering if this isnt hypersensitive, then what is? Also, is there anything I can do to get rid of this allergy?

Answer: Allergy is a chronic condition. That means that like diabetes or asthma it can be treated but not cured. The problem is caused by a defect in your immune system whereby your body misidentifies certain proteins as evil enemy invaders....instead of the harmless proteins that they are. You can't get rid of the allergy, but you can get rid of the allergic reaction. This is done by eliminating your exposure to the allergen. In this case it is shellfish. So, you avoid contact with shellfish. So stay out of seafood restaurants and don't eat shellfish. Also, read labels carefully to make sure that shellfish is not an ingredient in any prepackaged food you purchase.

Question: Question for Veterinarian. How much epinephrine in milligrams would you give puppy in case of Anaphylaxis? According to the weight of the puppy.

Answer: Look it up on Merck's Veterinary Manual. Or call your VET!

Question: Does anaphylaxis only happen in sensitive people? Does the risk of having anaphylaxis only happen in people who are highly sensitive? and people who have asthma? My friend has numerous allergies and asthma and carries an epipen. and so does her mother. So is the likelihood of having allergies hereditery? Also how rare is anaphylaxis? is it something that happens to everyone who is allergic?

Answer: Anaphylactic reactions that cause fatalities are rare, but anaphylactic reactions are very common especially among those who have asthma as well, however it can be unpredictable. There is more of a chance of having allergies of any kind though if there is a history. Your friend is smart to carry around an Epi-pen and you are a good friend for learning about anaphylaxis. You can learn a lot more at www.foodallergy.org which is the website for the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. This includes information about how to "Be a P.A.L." or "Protect a Life".

Question: Why Can't You Be In The Army If You Suffer From Anaphylaxis? Or the Navy or RAF for that matter. I heard about this a while ago but wondered what the actual reason was. Why should anaphylaxis hold you back. I was considering joining the RAF but that went out of the window because I'm allergic to peanuts.I know what it is and that it's life threatening but I mean why does it matter if it's fatal? People die doing those jobs anyway. So why? .

Answer: To be honest I am not sure why... I can only make some suggestions as to why. Even though I am not in the military my husband was and talking it over with him we think it maybe because the mess halls may not want to have to be so careful as to how their food is made or what they are distributing. Plus lord only knows where MRE's are made at or where they are from.

Question: I suffer from anaphylaxis due to latex, I now have muscle spasms in my back. Is there any treatment for this? I currently go to physical therapy 2 times a wk. My pain is severe and the therapy seem to not be helping. Is there any other form of pain management of medication for muscle spasms? Pls help!

Answer: If your "muscle spasms" are being caused by your reaction to latex, then PT will be ineffective because it does not address the real problem...your sensitivity to a substance. This would need to be addressed by an allergist. Remember than a muscle spasm is only a symptom, not a diagnosis...you cannot "cure" a muscle spasm. You can help it temporarily with muscle relaxers and massage (if it is a true spasm), but if the true cause is never found, they will continue to return. In all honesty, I've never truely seen anyone who's had a reaction like you describe. I'd go for further medical work-up to a: address your latex sensitivity and b: to make sure there is not a mechanical cause to your back pain.

Question: What can I do with the anaphylaxis? My dad has the anaphylaxis: he has dry mouth, trouble breathing, dizziness and weakness. But he cannot talk and he cannot breathe very well. My dad is still not feeling well all day. Can anybody help, please?

Answer: Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction to something. That doesn't exactly sound like what he's got...

Question: Can a person ever recover from caffeine anaphylaxis? If so, how long does it usually take?

Answer: I am recovering from more than 20 years of chronic caffeine poisoning. Stopped the habit 20 months ago and I'm still getting symptoms but in the long run, I'm a lot better. Between the recurring symptoms, I feel about 30 years younger than a couple of years back. Seems like it's going yo take a couple of yers before the body is clean from all the crap accumulated in the body during use. I noticed, that caffeinism has left me with a metabolic disorder. I have purine intolerance. This means, that I have to live on gout diet, or I get gout pains in whole body.

Question: Is there an Anaphylactic / Anaphylaxis Shock support group for the Charleston, SC area? If not, would anyone be interested in joining if one was started?

Answer: I'm in a different geographic area. If there isn't a group there already, go for it! It is certainly a worthy cause!

Question: Is laryngospasm a symptom of asthma or anaphylaxis? If not, how is it different from an asthma or allergy attack?

Answer: A laryngospasm is an uncontrolled/involuntary muscular contraction (spasm) of the laryngeal cords. The condition typically lasts less than 30 or 60 seconds, and causes a partial blocking of breathing in, while breathing out remains easier. It may be triggered when the vocal cords or the area of the trachea below the cords detects the entry of water, mucus, blood, or other substance. It is characterized by stridor and or retractions. Some people suffer from frequent laryngospasms, whether awake or asleep. In an ear, nose and throat practice, it is typically seen in people who have silent reflux disease. It is also a well known, infrequent, but serious post-surgery complication. This can be a symptom of asthma (hyper reactive airway) and/or a symptom of anaphylaxis.

Question: Does your child have an anaphylaxis allergy? Do they take precautions at their school? Have you heard of Sabrina's law passed in 2003? What special precautions do you and your child make at home? How does it affect your family?

Answer: My 3 year old has a severe allergy to all nuts. She took a taste of a pastry that contained traces of Cashews. She had a severe anaphylactic reaction. The idea of sending her to school kept me up at night for months. Luckily,the school is well versed and diligent about educating the staff,communicatin with the parents (both of allergic and non-allergic children) and most importantly,paying close attention to our kids with allergies. They don't officially call themselves a nut free school but they take all necessary precautions. At home,nothing enters my house that contains nuts or was processed on equipment that also processes nuts. When we go out to eat,no one at the table may have anything that could harm my child. We also have to ask servers about food ingredients and make them aware of cross contamination on untensils,etc. I'm ashamed to say that I don't know what Sabrina's law is. I do know that schools can voluntarily set up an action plan (many of our public schools are nut free and send home notices,also isolate the allergic kids at lunch time) I also know that labeling of foods in bold with allergy info is required. My daughter's allergy is a part of our everyday life. Small adjustments had to be made. Things we eat and bake with changed. Besides the medical part of it,I'm concerned that when she gets older,the allergy will make her feel different and isolated in certain situations. Peer pressure and growing up can be tough. I just hope that since she is so well educated already at a young age,that it will be normal for her and won't bother her so much. One of the toughest things is having a relative that doesnt have an overwhelming concern for the allergy. My mother in law will think nothing of eating a Reese's peanut butter cup or ordering a cake with nuts in it at dinner. I have repeatedly told her not to and what could happen. When she goes against what I say,I have to take the gloves off and prohibit her from coming anywhere near my daughter. Of course I'm done being nice about it which causes friction between my husband and I but I don't care. My daughter's health comes first. Luckily we dont see my husband's mother all that much. Thanks for letting me share some of this with you.

Question: can anaphylaxis shocks/ the medication you take after make you gain weight? because I've mysteriously gained 5 pounds I had the shock on tuesday night? I have to take 8 pills for 2 days after.

Answer: If you are referring to prednisone then the answer is yes, it does make you gain weight, mostly water weight, which will go away a few weeks after you stop taking the med. It can also make you hungry and if this is the case, overeating can lead to weight gain which is more difficult to lose than water retention. Prednisone is a powerful drug which stays in the body up to three weeks after use. Don't worry, it's only temporary. Sorry you went into shock in the first place. Good luck!

Question: What's the main different between anaphylaxis and atopy? I don't clearly understand it. Please help me.thank you

Answer: Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction to a foreign protein or other substance. Meaning this one develops on its own. Atopy is an allergic reaction with a hereditary predisposition. Meaning the animal is born with this problem. Hope this helps.

Question: Any advice for a person with exercise anaphylaxis? i have had a few attacks while on the treadmill or just after finishing. I have had to use an epipen and go to the ER several times. I was told to not eat or drink 2 hrs. before running. I really enjoy running but sometimes i get a little freaked out about this weird condition. I am a 50yr old female and this started happening at age 40. i have been a runner since the early 80's.

Answer: hmmm this is a tough one, i was going to say don't eat or drink anything and do your running early in the morning on an empty stomach, but as you've said this is not working. have you tried antihistamines like Hydroxyzine or mast cell stabalizers such as cromolyn ? if these aren't working, your just going to have to learn your triggers and try to avoid them. i remember reading somewhere that this does go away or at least not happen as much over time. but its been 10years for you. at the very least i would encourage you to find an exercise partner to workout with that is aware of your condition and can administer an epinephrine, also i would avoid aspirin. have you noticed if this happens around menstration only?? that could be a trigger. but maybe try those meds i mentioned above, thats all i got, hope it helps a little

Question: What you mean by anaphylaxis? Any treatment for it? I had have some peanut allergies. But when ever I take peanut or realted things then it cause vomiting, diarrhea, some time breathlessness etc happens. After daigonisis doctor says it is anaphylaxis? What you mean by anaphylaxis? Any treatment for it?

Answer: Anaphylaxis is the most severe peanut allergies.Better you try out natural herbal treatments (Ayurveda) .I suggtest you to go through online there you get all details about herbal treatment that you can do it from your home also. Just try http://www.theallergyreliefguide.com/ .Only thing you want to do that to mentioned your symptoms they will surely help you.