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Safety
Anaphylaxis
Life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate emergency care and action planning.
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Overview
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. It requires immediate recognition and treatment with epinephrine.
symptoms
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Hives or widespread skin redness
- Rapid pulse
- Drop in blood pressure
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Feeling of impending doom
triggers
- Foods (peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, etc.)
- Medications (penicillin, NSAIDs, etc.)
- Insect stings (bees, wasps, fire ants)
- Latex
- Exercise (sometimes in combination with food or medication)
treatment
immediate
- Epinephrine (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, or generic) - give immediately
- Call 911 or go to emergency room
- Lie down with legs elevated (if not having breathing difficulty)
- Second dose of epinephrine if no improvement in 5-15 minutes
emergency
Do not delay epinephrine administration. Antihistamines are NOT a substitute for epinephrine in anaphylaxis.
action Plan
essential
Every patient at risk needs a written anaphylaxis action plan
components
- Clear identification of triggers
- When to use epinephrine
- How to use epinephrine auto-injector
- When to call 911
- Emergency contacts
prevention
- Strict avoidance of known triggers
- Carry epinephrine at all times (2 devices recommended)
- Wear medical alert bracelet
- Educate family, friends, and coworkers
- Check food labels carefully
- Inform healthcare providers of allergies
referral
Refer to allergist for comprehensive evaluation, trigger identification, and long-term management plan.
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