A recent summary from Dr. Per Lidman, Pediatric Allergist,
provides key pointers:
Percent of population suffering from:
Food allergies 1-5%; Asthma 8-15%; Atopic dermatitis 10-15%; allergic rhinitis (hayfever & year-round allergies) 20-30%.
Triggers for anaphylaxis in order of magnitude:
Foods (33%), medications, insect venom, allergy shots (immunotherapy).
Where signs & symptoms of anaphylaxis occur:
Skin 90%; Respiratory 46-78%; Cardiovascular 30-49%; Gastrointestinal 30-46%.
Others: headache; anxiety; sense of doom.
Onset of anaphylaxis:
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Usually within seconds to minutes (occasionally 1-2 hours).
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A later onset usually has a less severe reaction.
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It is a common myth that each anaphylactic reaction gets progressively worse.
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Severity of the symptoms is unpredictable in the same person, varying in each reaction.
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A second reaction (biphasic) can occur in 1-20% of anaphylactic reactions, after 1-78 hours.
Useful information:
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The smell of peanut butter cannot cause an anaphylactic reaction.
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Peanut particles can be inhaled and cause anaphylaxis when shelling peanuts or when packets of peanuts are opened (remember this during air travel).
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Uncontrolled or poorly controlled asthma increases the risk of anaphylaxis becoming severe quickly.
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Stress or anxiety can cause symptoms that mimic an allergic reaction.
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Anaphylactic reactions can happen even when extreme caution is taken.
DR. RECOMMENDATIONS DURING ANAPHYLAXIS
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Auto injectors containing epinephrine MUST be given at the first sign of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction). THEN go to the hospital or dial 911.
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NEVER leave a person unattended once anaphylaxis has started.
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DO NOT expect a person to be able to administer the auto injector during an anaphylactic reaction. (Even adults can have difficulties).
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During anaphylaxis:
If person feels faint or dizzy, ensure he/she lies down with legs above the level of the heart.
If nausea or vomiting occurs, lie on side to prevent swallowing vomit.
If having difficulty breathing, sitting up is usually best.
(from Dr. Per Lidman, Pediatric Allergist)
