Anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe but rare allergic reaction that occurs when the person’s immune system reacts violently to an allergen. Anaphylaxis is triggered when the mast cells that are in the connective tissue throughout the body, bind to a great amount of IgE antibodies, causing the degranulation of mast cells, what by its turn liberate an enormous amount of immune mediators, including histamine.
The liberation of the mediators will act over many organs and will cause dilation of blood vessels and smooth muscle contraction, triggering the cascade of symptoms. The allergen may have drug, food or insects bites and stings origins. Symptoms develop rapidly, often within seconds or minutes: anxiety, wheezing, palpitations, dizziness, slurred speech, cough, difficult breathing, confusion, nausea, vomits, diarrhea, abnormal breathing sounds, fainting, among others.
During the anaphylaxis reaction, the whole body suffers and reacts, as you may see through the diversity of symptoms. Call 911! Antihistaminic and corticosteroids are adjuncts that may be given. Patient has to receive fluids through a vein, and an epinephrine injection immediately. Patient may have airway lockage, cardiac and respiratory arrest, shock and death. A tracheotomy may be necessary. Resuscitation procedures may be needed.
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