Anaphylactic shock

Anaphylactic Shock

Anaphylactic shock is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and intervention.

Causes

Anaphylactic shock is caused by an allergic reaction to a substance, known as an allergen. Common allergens include certain foods, medications, insect stings, and latex. The body's immune system overreacts to the allergen, releasing chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.

Symptoms

Symptoms of anaphylactic shock can vary from person to person, but they often include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, a rapid, weak pulse, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.

Treatment

The first line of treatment for anaphylactic shock is epinephrine, which can reduce the body's allergic response. Other treatments may include antihistamines and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and oxygen therapy to help with breathing difficulties.

Prevention

Prevention of anaphylactic shock involves avoiding known allergens. For those with known severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen) can be life-saving.

See also

• Allergy
• Epinephrine
• EpiPen