An allergic reaction is the body’s way of responding to an “invader”. When the body senses a foreign substance, called an antigen, the immune system normally protects the body from harmful agents such as bacteria and toxins. Its overreaction to a harmful substance (an allergen) is called a hypersensitivity, or allergic, reaction.
Anything can be an allergen. Common dust, pollen, plants, medication certain foods, insect venoms, viruses,
or bacteria are examples of allergens.
Reactions may be in one spot, such as a small skin rash or itchy eyes, or all over, as in a whole-body rash.
A reaction may include one or several symptoms.
The look and feel of an allergic reaction depend on the body part involved and the severity of the reaction. Some reactions affect many areas, others affect just one area. Reactions to the same allergen vary by individual.
Term for any combination of allergic symptoms that is rapid, or sudden, and potentially Anaphylaxis is the life threatening. Call an ambulance immediately if you suspect anaphylaxis.
One sign of anaphylaxis is shock. Shock has a very specific meaning in medicine: the organs of the body are not getting enough blood because of dangerously low blood pressure. Shock may lead rapidly to death. The person in shock may be pale or red, sweaty or dry, confused, anxious, or conscious.
Breathing may be difficult or noisy, or the person may be unable to breathe.
Shock is caused by sudden dilation of may or large blood vessels. This is brought on by the action of the mediators. If the drop in blood pressure is sudden and drastic, it can lead to unconsciousness, even cardiac arrest and death.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include any, some, or many of these:
Avoid triggers! If you know you have an allergic reaction to peanuts, for example, do not eat them. Go out of your way to avoid foods prepared with or around peanuts. Self –care at home is not enough in severe reactions. A severe reaction a medical emergency.
Small reactions with mild symptoms usually respond to nonprescription allergy medications. An oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Caution – These may make you too drowsy to drive or operate machinery safely. They can affect concentration and interfere with children’s learning in school. These medications should be taken for only a few days. For rashes, an anti – inflammatory steroid cream such as hydrocortisone For small, Localized skin reactions, try cold, wet clothes or ice. Try applying a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel.
