Anaphylaxis: How to recognize and act in the event of a dangerous reaction

Imagine: you have eaten a regular product or taken a regular medicine, but suddenly you experience severe difficulty breathing, dizziness, and redness of the skin. This could be anaphylaxis, the most serious type of allergic reaction that develops rapidly and poses a real threat to life. Timely recognition and competent first aid play a key role in saving a person.

Anaphylaxis: what is this condition?

Anaphylaxis is an acute systemic allergic reaction in which the immune system overreacts to a substance. The body releases large amounts of histamine, which causes vasodilation, swelling, a drop in blood pressure, and narrowing of the airways.

According to WHO, cases of anaphylaxis are increasing worldwide due to the spread of food allergens, uncontrolled medication use, and worsening environmental conditions.

What most often causes anaphylaxis?

Allergens can be very diverse. Among the most common are:

• protein products (seafood, peanuts, eggs);

• stings from bees, wasps or hornets;

• medications (including antibiotics and contrast agents);

• latex and some chemical compounds;

• a combination of physical activity and the consumption of certain foods.

Symptoms that cannot be ignored

Anaphylaxis develops very quickly, from a few seconds to 20 minutes. In most cases, the following signs may be observed:

• skin changes: hives, redness, itching;

• swelling: lips, tongue, larynx;

• respiratory symptoms: shortness of breath, wheezing, feeling of "tightness" in the throat;

• cardiovascular manifestations: a sharp drop in blood pressure, weakness, rapid pulse;

• gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting;

• psycho-emotional reactions: anxiety, panic, loss of consciousness.

Tests and investigations after anaphylaxis

After the attack is stopped, the patient is often prescribed a series of tests to determine the cause of the reaction.
Main research:

• Blood test for specific IgE antibodies.

• Level determination tryptase (increases during anaphylactic shock).

• Skin allergy tests.

• Panel food and drug allergens.

These tests allow you to establish the exact trigger and develop an individual prevention plan.

Table: types of allergens and the risk of developing anaphylaxis

First aid: how to act correctly?

1. Call an ambulance immediately (103 or local number).

2. Use adrenaline (epinephrine) — drug #1 for stopping anaphylaxis.

3. Lay the person on their back, raise their legs, and unbutton tight clothing.

4. Monitor breathing and pulse. In case of cardiac arrest, begin resuscitation measures.

How to prevent anaphylaxis?

• Always check the composition of medicines and products.

• Carry an adrenaline auto-injector with you if you are prone to severe allergic reactions.

• Inform doctors of all known allergies before prescribing procedures or medications.

• Visit an allergist regularly, especially after experiencing severe reactions.

Features in children

Anaphylaxis in children often occurs to protein foods (eggs, dairy products, nuts). Symptoms can develop even more quickly in toddlers than in adults. Therefore, it is important to teach parents how to react correctly and to have the necessary medications on hand.

Anaphylaxis is a condition that leaves no time for reflection. A clear knowledge of the symptoms, timely administration of adrenaline and calling an ambulance can be crucial. Awareness of the risks and prevention is the first step towards a safe life for people with hypersensitivity to allergens.